McMINNVILLE, ORE. – Looking to start their season off with a win over Bellevue C.C. The Wildcats' hosted the Bulldogs on February 16^th at 1:00 p.m. Linfield took down Bellevue 8-1.
 
Linfield started out the match on top as they won all three doubles points. Eric Rutherford and J.T. Bacellos had the largest win at the second spot with an 8-3 victory.
 
The Wildcats were able to sustain their momentum into their singles matches as five of the six 'Cats managed to win their matches. At the No. 1 position Nathan Saragoza managed a 6-2, 6-3 victory. Eric Rutherford also had a large victory as his scores were 6-1, 6-1.

Coach Belletto's Thoughts 

"We competed really well today. For the first match of the season, we battled through jitters, played with discipline and energy, and were able to focus on doing what it takes to win. I was really happy with our in-match adjustments up and down the lineup. 

We had good energy in doubles, which allowed us to pull away. Eric Rutherford had a great day, looking shape from the beginning of doubles through his singles match. He set the tone. Nathan and Luis did a great job of keeping their composure and waiting for their chances in both singles and doubles. Jake made a great adjustment in his singles match. Trent doesn't play his best today, but he competed extremely well and did what he had to do.

Overall, it was a good start, but we need to keep improving to achieve our field this year," said head coach Ben Belletto.

Next
Linfield will travel to Portland, Ore. to take on Lewis & Clark on Sunday, February 17^th at 10:00 a.m.