BOYS' TENNIS: Cougars earn two key tie-breaking wins

By Staff Reports
Published in Sports on March 8, 2017 9:57 AM

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Sam DeAraujo and Aaron Podbielski each won a crucial tie-breaker in singles play as Goldsboro turned back Eastern Wayne, 6-3, on the John Allen Farfour Courts at Herman Park on Tuesday afternoon.

DeAraujo rallied past the Warriors' Dylan March a 6-4, 1-6, 1-0 (10-6) at No. 1 singles. Podbielski, the No. 5 seed, stopped Ian Burchett 7-6 (2), 6-2.

Second-seeded Xan Pate and third-seeded Caleb Whitted each emerged victorious in straight-set fashion to give the Cougars a 4-2 lead heading into doubles action.

DeAraujo-Holden Jones and Pate-Whitted sealed the outcome with victories at Nos. 1 and 2 doubles, respectively.

Anass Sarah and Daniel Stevens each picked up a singles point for the Warriors. The duo combined for an 8-2 win at No. 3 doubles.

"This was a hardfought match," EW head coach Craig Hassell said. "We came up a little short on a few matches which could have been the difference in the overall outcome, but (I'm) pleased with our effort nevertheless. Coach (Steven) Fine has an athletic and talented team with depth.

"We are still young and inexperienced in some areas, so this match will help prepare (us) as we return to conference play."

Eastern Wayne (2-2 overall) entertains J.H. Rose on Thursday. Goldsboro, which has six seniors on its roster, improved to 2-1 overall this season and opens Eastern Carolina 2-A Conference play March 14 at North Lenoir.