Sally Pethybridge and Nadine Arbaizar Martinez delivered impressive performances with three-set wins, but the Portland Pilots ultimately fell to No. 59 Washington State, 4-2, at the Louisiana-Pacific Tennis Center on Saturday.
The Cougars started strong, winning all three doubles matches and taking a 1-0 lead. They continued their momentum, clinching victories at No. 2 and No. 3 singles in straight sets. However, the Pilots fought back, narrowing the gap as Pethybridge triumphed over Eva Alvarez Sande after losing a tight tiebreak in the first set. She rallied to win 6-7, 6-2, 7-5, proving her resilience.
Arbaizar Martinez also showcased her tenacity, edging out Chisato Kanemaki at No. 5 singles with a score of 6-2, 2-6, 6-4. However, Washington State secured the overall match win when Hania Abouelsaad outlasted Isabella Marquart, making it 4-2. The final singles match involving Portland’s Maria Galatescu and Martina Markov was left unfinished as both players were engaged in a closely contested third set.
Looking ahead, the Pilots will be back in action with a doubleheader on Sunday at the Louisiana-Pacific Tennis Center. The men’s team will face Pepperdine at 10 a.m., followed by the women’s match against Saint Mary’s at approximately 2 p.m.
Here’s a brief look at the match results:
Singles:
- Sally Pethybridge (POR) d. Eva Alvarez Sande (WSU) 6-7 (4), 6-2, 7-5
- Maxine Murphy (WSU) d. Alaia Rubio Perez (POR) 7-5, 7-5
- Elyse Tse (WSU) d. Aleksandra Dimitrijevic (POR) 7-6 (2), 6-3
- Hania Abouelsaad (WSU) d. Isabella Marquart (POR) 4-6, 6-3, 6-2
- Nadine Arbaizar Martinez (POR) d. Chisato Kanemaki (WSU) 6-2, 2-6, 6-4
- Martina Markov (WSU) vs. Maria Galatescu (POR) 6-2, 4-6, 3-1, unfinished
- Doubles:
- Alvarez Sande/Murphy (WSU) d. Pethybridge/Rubio Perez (POR) 6-4
- Kanemaki/Tse (WSU) d. N. Arbaizar Martinez/Dimitrijevic (POR) 6-3
- Abouelsaad/Markov (WSU) d. Marquart/Galatescu (POR) 6-1
Despite the loss, Pethybridge and Arbaizar Martinez’s performances indicate resilience and skill. In an era where sports statistics highlight the importance of mental strength, Pethybridge’s comeback reflects a growing trend in athletics focusing on psychological preparedness.
Recent studies show that athletes who practice mental resilience techniques, like visualization and mindfulness, often perform better under pressure. As the season progresses, the Pilots can integrate these strategies into their training to elevate their game.
For anyone interested in sports, jumping on board with an exciting journey like the Pilots’ is a great way to experience the highs and lows of collegiate athletics. Don’t miss out on future matches at PortlandPilots.com.