LEWISTON, Maine — The Bates men's tennis team faced a formidable challenge on Saturday, hosting No. 10 nationally ranked Williams College at Merrill Gymnasium. Despite a valiant effort against the Ephs, the Bobcats secured wins at No. 2 doubles and No. 6 singles in a 6-1 setback.

The highlight of the day came from the tandem of Phillippe Kosyagin and James Sacco, who delivered an inspired performance at No. 2 doubles. The duo outlasted Diego Marin and Simon Volkema in a tightly-contested set, prevailing 7-6 (7-3) to give Bates an early spark.

In singles action, Nicolas Ozer turned in a resilient effort at No. 6 singles to secure the Bobcats' lone singles point. After winning the first set by a score of 6-2, Marin stormed back to take the second set 7-6 (7-1). In the tiebreaker, clinched the victory with a 1-0 (10-6) triumph. 

Despite the overall team loss, Bates demonstrated determination and grit, pushing the Ephs (2-2, 2-1 NESCAC) to the limit in several matches. "I am very proud of our team for competing in each and every point and for being in every, single match vs. the No. 10 team in the country," said Bates head coach, Paul Gastonguay '89. "We continue to grow as a team and our young group continues to make strides and improve, not only on the physical side, but their focus, intensity, and mental toughness keeps getting stronger."

The Bobcats (3-6, 1-2 NESCAC) take to the road for their next two contests, starting with a visit to No. 25 MIT this Wednesday at 2:00 p.m.