LOUISVILLE, Ky.--The Bellarmine University men's tennis team opened its 2013 spring campaign with a solid 5-4 victory over Division I in-state rival Western Kentucky University on Saturday at Bellarmine University's Sport, Recreation and Fitness Center.

Anton Rabinov again led the way for the Knights earning two of the five Knights' wins on the day.  First in doubles, Rabinov teamed with Alex Chanley to secure an 8-1 win, and he followed with a hard-fought 7-6, 6-2 win at number one singles. 

The number three doubles team of Alan Gardiner and Nathan Walroth picked up the Knights' additional doubles point with a solid performance, coming back from an early break to win 9-7. 

Senior Jacob Knagenhjelm, playing in the number two singles spot got off to a quick start, winning the first set 6-0.  As the second set began he soon found himself down 3-0 before he turned it around winning 7-5 in the tie-breaker after saving multiple set points along the way. 

Jimmy Fernandez clinched the match with a superb 6-1, 6-0 victory at the No. 6 singles spot. 

"This match exemplifies a total team win with contributions from every member of the team," said Bellarmine Coach John Mican.

The Knights have now won the last two matches against the Hilltoppers after losing the previous 18.


Bellarmine University 5, Western Kentucky 4
Feb 02, 2013 at Louisville, Ky.