Lauren McCarthy relentlessly battled in a singles match that had four lead changes. Despite her effort, she was defeated and the Penn State women's tennis team lost to Illinois, 7-0, in its final home match of the season.
The loss puts the Nittany Lions' record to 2-6 in the Big Ten and 5-15 overall.
Illinois took command of the match early by winning all three doubles matches. McCarthy and junior Sarah Lotto battled back from a 7-1 deficit, but eventually lost 8-5.
With the 1-0 lead after doubles, the Fighting Illini continued to carry play, sweeping the six singles matches.
Head coach Dawna Prevette knows there is room for improvement, but was pleased with her team's effort.
"We put up a good fight today, and that's all I can ask for," Prevette said.
While it was the last home match of the season for the Lions, it was the last time seniors Dorothy Dohanics and Leyla Morzan would take the court in front of the home crowd.
Both played together in doubles competition and each had a singles match.
Even though they acknowledged they did not play their best tennis, Dohanics and Morzan enjoyed the opportunity to play in final home match of their careers.
"My last home match was not the way I wanted to finish," Morzan said. "But leaving Penn State knowing I'm playing one of my better years feels good."
Playing in their final home match made the seniors think about their time at Penn State and brought back many memories.
"I had four amazing years here and I'm really going to miss it when I go," Dohanics said.
Morzan said she will miss her teammates most.
The value of Dohanics and Morzan over the past four years has not gone unnoticed.
Coach Prevette has especially seen their importance.
"Leyla and Dorothy have been real instrumental to Penn State tennis," Prevette said.
"We appreciate everything, all the heart and soul they put into the program."
The Lions have to regain their focus and prepare for a tough weekend on the road.
They face Wisconsin Saturday and No.1 Northwestern Sunday.
"We now have to get better and focus on Wisconsin, so it's time to go again," Prevette said.
