SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – SIUE women’s tennis successfully began the dual match season Sunday with a 7-0 road victory against Illinois-Springfield.

“It was a great way to start the season and compete against someone outside of our team,” said SIUE Head Coach Adam Albertsen. “I thought we were focused and continued to carry the momentum from start to finish.”

SIUE was strong from top to bottom, sweeping all three doubles match for the early team point.

SIUE’s Chloe Koons and Cydney Rogers were victorious 6-3 at No. 3 doubles against Niamh Grogan and Kamila Kalinowska. It was the first time Koons and Rogers have been matched up as doubles partners.

The Cougars added straight sets wins in all five contested matches.

Jill Lambrechts defeated Carmen Llopis Fabra 7-5, 6-2 at No. 1 singles. Jordan Schifano dominated Sina Skjelstad at No. 2 singles 6-0, 6-1. Amelia Gorman overpowered Franca Bucco Paolasso 6-1, 6-0 at No. 3 singles. Stefaniya Anikina enjoyed a strong collegiate debut at No. 4 singles with a 6-3, 6-3 triumph over Grogan. Fabiola Perez bested Kalinowska at No. 5 singles 6-1, 6-2.

SIUE’s next action is Saturday at the Edwardsville Y Meyer Center when it welcomes Valparaiso for a 2:30 p.m. match.

“We really look forward to returning to the home courts next Saturday,” said Albertsen. “Valpo defeated us in a close 4-3 match last year and it will give us a great test.”