The Brahmas lost its final game in doubles play at home 7-2, Tuesday, against El Camino College.
The contest consisted of five singles and two doubles matches. Coach Long Dao said that it could have been a different play throughout the season if it wasn’t for having only having five tennis players.
“In the end, it’s all about getting those wins. But I would like to see my guys improve in those area that we’ve been working all year, especially in doubles,” Dao said.
Dao also wants his players to improve on staying aggressive during the game and not being too passive. He also wants the tennis players to be able to dictate and be smart about their tennis.
Pierce player Daniel Barrera won his first singles match of the season against Andrew Miyazato (6-0, 6-2). Barrera was playing consistently as he finished the first set.
“Toward the ends. I got a little nervous, so I start to make a couple mistakes. I tried over hitting. That obviously went wrong. But then I turn and switch back,” Barrera said.
Pierce player Sean Reid played the final singles match against Angel Takahashi before doubles, however had to retire his match due to an injury to his knee that he sustained during gameplay.
Pierce player Nick Kerhulas also won his singles match (6-1, 6-4). He said there was times where he missed an easy shot and it got him, but today wasn’t that day.
“I was mentally strong. I wasn’t getting mad when I made easy mistakes. I just kept fighting,” Kerhulas said.
El Camino College head coach Steve Kanegan, about how the match was going as it was beginning the doubles after the singles, he said it was good sports.
“It’s going good, we’re having fun. It’s a good matchup. An even match. Both teams are struggling this year and it’s nice to see that everyone out here are having a good time,” Kanegan said.
Pierce’s number one player Manish Kumar missed this game as well as he missed the first two of the season. Being down a player yet another cost the match as they were not able to play a sixth singles and a third doubles match, resulting in another forfeit of both matches for Pierce.
Pierce’s next game is at Western State Conference on Friday with the first match beginning at 11 a.m. Dao said.
