Clinton, NY - The Colby Men's Tennis team wrapped up its weekend with an important NESCAC matchup on the road against Hamilton College.

The Mules started out strong, being aggressive in doubles play, taking it to their Hamilton opponents. Senior captain Josh Kaplan and first-year Diego Sosa picked up a key win at the #3 spot to tip things off for the Mules. With key serving to close things out, the pairing clinched a 6-4 win. After the #2 position fell to Hamilton 4-6, the all-important opening doubles point came down to the #1 spot. Senior captain Jake Cohen and first-year Jason Daly found themselves in a battle. With both teams taking care of serve, the match was all tied up at 5-5. Following a hold by the Colby duo, Cohen and Daly ripped off four impressive returns to break Hamilton and clinch the doubles point 7-5 for the Mules. 

Heading into singles play up 1-0 in the dual match, the Mules built off their momentum early on. Cohen was the first to finish his match, dominating his opponent in an efficient 6-3, 6-0 victory in just over an hour at the #1 spot. Daly followed suit with a straight sets 6-2, 6-2 win at the #2 spot, proving to be too consistent for his opponent. With the Mules up 3-0, they needed one more match to clinch the victory against Hamilton.

Unfortunately for Colby, Hamilton did not give in at all. The Continentals tied the match back up at 3-3 after straight sets victories at the #3, #4, and #5 positions. With the dual match tied up at 3-3, it all came down to the #6 spot to determine the outcome. Kaplan found himself in a battle with his Hamilton opponent, with the two continuously producing 30+ shot rallies. Despite incredible fight and determination, Kaplan fell just short, 7-6(2), 6-4 to his Hamilton opponent.

With Hamilton winning the match 4-3, Colby will look to bounce back in a few days when the team takes on Bowdoin College this Thursday afternoon at Mayflower Hill.