The Middlesex Girls' Varsity Tennis team won its match against Brooks Wednesday afternoon 8 - 7 in its most competitive match played this season. It went down to the final doubles match for the overall match to be determined. The contest took place on the Middlesex home courts with sunny skies and warm temperatures.

It would be easy to take for granted the level of players that senior captain Helen Lasry has gone up against this season at #1 singles because she plays skillfully and demonstrates exemplary perseverance and sportsmanship in every match. She led her team in both position and attitude out on the court; indeed her coaches and teammates are impressed and proud of her hard work and tenacity, and her contributions to the team are appreciated by all. At #2 singles, Maud McCole took both sets 6 - 2, 6- 3 by beating her opponent with the consistency and good judgment that has come to characterize Maud's singles style of play. Madeline Graham '18 played a patient game, setting up good points to exploit her opponent's weaknesses effectively at #3 also securing both points for the Zebras. Averill Emery '20 was off to a strong start and took an early lead, capturing her first set 6 - 3. She struggled to respond to her opponent's net game in the second set and split with Brooks. Jessica Andrews '21 played an aggressive first set to get ahead early as well and took her first set 6 - 3. She struggled to maintain control of the points in the second and ultimately split. 

It was a tied match as the Zebras went into doubles. Lasry and McCole had a very tight match at #1 doubles but struggled against a powerful baseliner and crusher at net on the Brooks team; they lost the point 5 - 8. Emery and Graham came through however. They were down 6 - 7 at one point but were able to steady their nerves and dig deep to win the next three games in a row to clinch the needed set for Middlesex to stay in the match. Andrews and Rand played a consistent set with good teamwork and aggressive points. They won their set and secured the overall win for Middlesex! 

The team will have a recovery practice tomorrow before it faces Dexter Southfield Friday on our home courts again.