Feb. 18, 2011

Results

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COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The University of Maryland men's tennis team defeated the UNC-Wilmington Seahawks 4-3 Friday afternoon in an all-around tough match. The Terrapins lost the first set in five of the six singles matches, but were still able to escape with a victory due to late rallies by Jesse Kiuru, John Collins and Tommy Laine.

With the match tied at 3-all, Kiuru clinched it for the Terps (5-2) with a three-set win over Illia Ziamtsou at No. 5 singles. Kiuru lost the first set 6-3, but took the second 7-5. After gaining momentum from the second set, Kiuru defeated Ziamtsou in commanding fashion by winning the final set 6-0. Kiuru's performance sealed the victory for the Terps.

Assistant coach Evan Clark was impressed with Kiuru's composure and will to win.

"I think he had very good energy coming out," said Clark. "He had a lot of momentum from the second set. It was a very emotional win and he kept it under control. He made his opponent work and he took care of business. After the way he started out, there was no doubt he was going to win that match."

Collins also posted a singles victory for the Terrapins. Like Kiuru, Collins lost the first set to his opponent, UNCW's Kosta Blank, won 6-2. Collins took control of the match and won the final two sets, 6-3, 6-1.

Laine was the only Terrapin to not fall behind in his singles match. Pitted against Pedro Mol of the Seahawks, Laine emerged as the winner of the match, 7-6 (4), 6-3. Laine's victory improves his single's dual record record to 6-1.

The Terrapins swept the Seahawks (4-2) in doubles play to earn the first point of the match.

Maryland head coach Kyle Spencer was pleased with the team's toughness, especially after falling behind early.

"I'm really proud of the guys being able to fight back," said Spencer. "We lost five of the first six sets out there. I'm really proud of Jesse in the last match, coming back to win that one. When you have a good match and a good battle, you have to have the guys pull through."

Maryland will be back in action again on Saturday as it takes on the Radford Highlanders at 1 p.m. in College Park.