In a closely contested match, the Appalachian State Mountaineers narrowly lost to South Alabama with a final score of 4-3. The contest, which took place at Boone, North Carolina, marked the Mountaineers' first home conference game of the season. Despite facing an early setback due to an injury-related forfeit, the team showcased resilience and determination throughout the encounter. Key players such as Alexi Cleveland, Naledi Manyube, and Olwyn Ryan-Bovey delivered strong performances, but it wasn't enough to secure the victory against the visiting Jaguars.

On Sunday, March 16th, the App State tennis squad encountered challenges right from the start when an injury to Isabela Romanichen resulted in a forfeited doubles match. Consequently, this placed the Mountaineers (7-5, 1-2 SBC) behind by a score of 1-0 before they even stepped onto the court for their initial doubles pairing. Nevertheless, teammates Naledi Manyube and Olwyn Ryan-Bovey triumphed convincingly with a 6-2 win from the second spot, keeping their team within reach. Unfortunately, South Alabama (10-2, 3-0 SBC) capitalized on the situation to clinch the doubles point and entered singles play with a slight advantage.

As the competition transitioned into singles matches, both teams battled fiercely. Alexi Cleveland provided a much-needed boost for her side by achieving a decisive 6-3, 6-1 victory, improving her record to 6-3 overall and maintaining a perfect 2-0 mark in Sun Belt Conference games. However, Savannah Dada-Mascoll faced difficulties, suffering her second loss of the year after being defeated 4-6, 4-6 in the top position. Meanwhile, Naledi Manyube continued her impressive form despite moving up to the second slot due to Romanichen's absence, delivering a commanding 6-0, 7-6 performance.

The efforts of Cleveland, Manyube, and Ryan-Bovey were commendable; however, they couldn't prevent the ultimate outcome. A critical loss by Ruby Broadbent in the sixth singles position handed the Jaguars their hard-earned triumph. With this result, South Alabama extended its winning streak while the Mountaineers prepare for their next challenge against Southern Miss scheduled for March 16th at 10 a.m., staying in the High Country for continued Sun Belt Conference action.

Looking ahead, the Mountaineers aim to regroup and refocus as they face Southern Miss in another crucial conference matchup. Fans can anticipate more thrilling encounters as the 2024-2025 season progresses under the sponsorship of the Hound Ears Club. While there remains work to be done, the team's spirit and tenacity promise exciting prospects moving forward.