Kearney, Neb. – Sophomore Emma Neil won in straight sets at No. 5 singles to help Nebraska-Kearney beat Central Oklahoma, 5-4, Saturday afternoon in Edmond.

This was a key MIAA and Central Regional dual for both teams. In the March 16 Central Region rankings, UCO (11-4, 0-1) was fifth and UNK (8-2, 1-1) sixth.

The Bronchos trailed 2-1 after doubles but won in straight sets at No. 1, No. 2 and No. 6 singles to not only grab the lead back but also be one point from the dual victory.

However, senior Paula Jimenez (Spain) rallied from a 1-0 deficit at No. 3 singles by winning the final two sets, 6-3 and 6-1. Two spots lower in the lineup, Missouri freshman Camryn Parnell also won in the third set, 6-2, to take her match and tie up the team score.  

That setup Neil (Papillion-LaVista H.S.), who came in with an 8-1 singles mark. Facing sophomore Anya Minakova, she won the first set 6-4 but trailed 5-2 in the second. Neil rallied back to win 7-6 (6), giving UNK its third straight dual win over UCO.

Kearney gets Sunday off before facing No. 40 St. Edward's Monday in Austin.