NATCHITOCHES – The Northwestern State Lady Demons tennis team is gearing up for a pivotal Southland Conference clash against newcomer UTRGV on Friday at 1 p.m. at the Jack Fisher Lady Demon Complex.  

The match, initially scheduled for Saturday, was moved up a day due to expected inclement weather. 

The Lady Demons (2-5, 2-0) are riding high after a dominant 6-1 victory over Nicholls earlier this week in Thibodaux. Several players shone in that match, showcasing individual brilliance and team chemistry. 

"It was very important to get those two wins on the road," says head coach Marcos Morelli. "The girls want to accomplish big things, and they knew the importance of a good start in conference play." 

Zoi Spyrou delivered a comeback at No. 1 singles, bouncing back from dropping the first set to defeat Nicholls's Aada Inna in a thrilling 5-7, 7-5, 15-13 marathon. 

Tjasa Klevisar also delivered a dramatic comeback victory at No. 2 singles, rallying from a set deficit to claim a 3-6, 7-6(2), 11-9 win over Paulia Villegas.  

At No. 3 singles, Maria Farina dominated her matchup, rolling past Noemie Piquet 6-2, 6-2. 

Ayu Ishibashi and Sofi Garcia also provided key singles wins, with Ishibashi defeating Blanca Losada 6-3, 6-1 and Garcia dismantling Constanza Cruz 6-0, 6-2. 

With a 2-0 Southland Conference record, the Lady Demons aim to continue their winning streak against UTRGV (4-3, 2-0), a team they have never faced in Southland play.  

The Vaqueros also come into this match 2-0 in Southland Conference play, having won their first two matches against Southeastern, 6-1, and McNeese, 4-3.  

"They are a tough team and well coached," says Morelli. "We are going to focus on playing our style of doubles and be consistent in singles. It's going to be a battle." 

In program history, NSU has an undefeated record against UTRGV, winning all six matches. The last time the two met was in 2012, when the Demons dominated the Vaqueros 7-0. 

Following this match, the Lady Demons continue their homestand and welcome Texas A&M-Corpus Christi to the Jack Fisher Lady Demon Complex on Monday at 11 a.m.