Unlike the Luther meet, the Tommies rescheduled and the teams squared off at Coughlan Fieldhouse on Tuesday night, with the Oles falling to the host 8-1.
Ted Nagel 04 was the lone victor at number one singles with a 6-4, 7-6 win. Coach Scott Nesbit insisted that his team had no trouble refocusing after the meet was postponed. Rather, despite excellent efforts from the team, the Oles were simply outplayed by a more talented, deeper opponent.
I don't feel the postponement of the match made it that difficult to refocus, Nesbit said. St. Thomas possesses extraordinary depth. They have about 10 to 14 players who are very skilled.
Nesbit added that the difficult conditions of St. Thomas fieldhouse contributed to the final score. It is a very quick surface that lends itself to a power game of big serving and aggressive return of serve, he said. These conditions favored the Tommies, who were outstanding in the serve and return of serve aspect [of the game].
The Oles have a quick turnaround as they travel Saturday to perennial conference power, and reigning confernce champion, Gustavus.