Kearney, Neb. – The Nebraska-Kearney women's tennis team racked up its 18th win of the season thanks to a 7-2 decision over the Fort Hays State Tigers Tuesday afternoon in Kansas.
 
With the setback, FHSU drops to 11-10 (2-8) on the year.
 
Ranked sixth in the Central Region, the Lopers (18-4, 7-2) grabbed its usual lead after doubles as senior Kari Emery (Tucson, Ariz.) and freshman Emma Neil (Papillion) rolled 8-1 in the third spot.
 
At the top of the lineup, the regionally-ranked duo of Sthefani Rodriguez (Venezuela) and Emily Fink (Elkhorn) won for the ninth time thanks to an 8-4 decision. UNK is now 51-15 in doubles this dual season.
 
Next, the Lopers allowed just five combined points between No. 3-6 singles with Neil being perfect (6-0, 6-0) in the fourth spot and freshman Jadyn Trimble (Kearney H.S.) winning her third collegiate match playing at No. 6 singles.
 
Things were tougher at No. 1 singles as senior Kristin Weems (Arlington, Texas) dropped her first set, 6-1, but won her second, 7-6 (3), and then dominated  the tiebreaker, 10-1. Finally, Rodriguez improved to 14-7 after a battle in the second position, 7-6 (6), 6-4.
 
UNK hosts Concordia Wednesday afternoon at Harmon Park. First serve is set for 4:00 p.m.