AZUSA, Calif. — No. 17 Azusa Pacific bounced back in singles play Saturday afternoon, defeating Stanton University 5–2 at the Munson & Bavougian Tennis Complex to improve to 9–2 on the season.
Stanton (2–3) grabbed early momentum by claiming the doubles point, winning at Nos. 1 and 2 while Karola Suviste and Kimberly Tran earned a 6–2 victory at No. 3.
Order of finish (doubles): 3, 2, 1
Trailing 1–0, the Cougars responded emphatically in singles.
No. 45 Stina Larsson dominated at No. 2 singles with a flawless 6–0, 6–0 performance to immediately even the match and spark the turnaround. Karola Suviste followed with a commanding 6–1, 6–4 win at No. 3, and Kimberly Tran cruised 6–1, 6–0 at No. 4 to put APU firmly in control.
The Cougars continued to roll as Melis Mert battled through a marathon first-set tiebreak before securing a straight-set victory at No. 5, and Mariana Reveles added another point at No. 6 to round out the scoring.
Order of finish (singles): 1, 2, 4, 3, 6, 5
Larsson set the tone in emphatic fashion. Her 6–0, 6–0 sweep at No. 2 singles not only leveled the dual but ignited the Cougars' momentum after dropping the doubles point. The dominant performance showcased her composure and firepower, anchoring Azusa Pacific's comeback and reinforcing her leadership in the lineup.
Key Stats & Notes
- Suviste has now started the year 11-0 in singles play.
- Mert and Houkes' three-set battle would last one hour and 47 minutes.
- Suviste has not been beaten in 27 straight singles matches dating back to last year.
