April 19, 2008

Agate

CHARLESTON, S.C. - The 67th-ranked men's tennis team blanked Appalachian State 4-0 in the semifinals of the Southern Conference tournament on Saturday.

The Paladins started the match with a close 8-6 win at number one doubles by the team of Andy Juc and Chris Motes. Bo Ladyman and Chris Walters clinched the doubles point with an 8-5 win on the break over Lee Floyd and Peter Jacobs.

Junior Andy Juc put Furman up 2-0 with a quick 6-0, 6-1 win over Bobby Lake at the number one singles spot.

"I knew that if I stayed consistent, put good shots in, and moved him around, I would do well," commented Juc. "I made some mistakes in the beginning, but fought through it and stayed consistent. It was just a good day for tennis."

Junior Daniel Knause earned the next point for the Paladins with a solid 6-2, 6-1 win over Ryan Brookshaw at number two singles, and freshman Sawyer Duncan clinched the match for Furman with a 6-3, 6-1 victory over David Doverspike.

With the win, Furman improves to 15-10 overall, while Appalachian State ends the season with a 13-10 record. Furman will face the winner of #2 Elon vs. #3 Wofford in the finals of the Southern Conference tournament, which will take place on Sunday at 1:30 p.m.