TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Northeastern State came up just short in a tightly contested match Saturday, falling 4-3 to Nebraska-Kearney at the NSU Tennis Courts.

The RiverHawks (5-8) battled throughout, rallying with three singles victories after dropping the doubles point.

Nebraska-Kearney (12-6) claimed an early advantage by winning two of three doubles matches. Northeastern State's duo of Alexander Edley and Mansur Khajimuradov secured a 6-4 victory at No. 1 doubles to prevent the sweep.

In singles play, the RiverHawks responded with strong performances at the top of the lineup. James Edley delivered a comeback win at No. 1 singles, defeating Ivan Melnik in three sets, 4-6, 6-4, 7-5. Alexander Edley followed with a straight-sets victory at No. 2, 6-2, 6-4.

Baptiste Linet added another point for Northeastern State with a gritty three-set win at No. 5 singles, rallying for a 4-6, 6-4, 10-2 decision.

Despite the effort, Nebraska-Kearney secured wins at Nos. 3, 4 and 6 singles to clinch the match.

Northeastern State will return to action April 18 with a road match at Newman in Wichita, Kansas.