Playing their first match of the year, the girls tennis team took on the mighty Manteca Buffaloes yesterday at Weston Ranch. The Buffaloes (1-1 in VOL play) got a strong effort from their top players and hung on to beat the Cougars (0-1) 6 games to 3.

The Cougars had a tough start (losing the first two doubles matches). Still, they got strong efforts from singles players Ella Nykanen and Jolette Jamarillo and the doubles team of Manvir Kaur/Allegra Rios, who all posted victories.

“Despite the loss 3-6, the team showed great spirit and determination,” said head coach Michael Cerezo.

Nykanen, from Helsinki, Finland, had the signature match of the day and perhaps in the history of Cougar tennis as she gutted out a 2.5 hour, 3 set match victory, winning 6-3, 6-7 (5), 11-9.

Weston Ranch travels to Oakdale on September 14 for their next match.

Photos courtesy of Mr. Cerezo