PELLA — Playing at home for the first time this season, the Central College women's tennis team was defeated by Truman State University (Mo.) 8-1 Tuesday afternoon.
           
The Dutch (2-4) were playing host to the Bulldogs (1-1), an NCAA Division II program, in their first home action of the season.
           
"This is the only way we are going to get better," coach Ryun Ferrell said. "We're going to play anybody who is willing to play us in the middle of the week. We're going to put our team in uncomfortable situations and we'll have to find a way to play and be tough."
           
The only point for Central in the match came from Sarah Behrens (junior, Red Oak) at No. 3 singles against Caprice Huitron 3-6, 6-3, 10-2.
           
"She was a woman on a mission," Ferrell said. "It was great to see how determined she was. Sarah is finally healthy and is starting to play tennis like I know she can."
           
Kaysey Bos (junior, Geneseo, Ill.) won the first set of her No. 4 singles match but ultimately lost 4-6, 6-2, 10-5.
           
Four of Central's top players were not in the lineup as they prepare for the USTA/ITA Division III Midwest Regional this weekend in Saint Peter, Minn. Karleigh Schilling (junior, Swisher, Cedar Rapids Prairie HS) and Maddie Hartley (sophomore, Clarinda) will both be in the singles draw. Schilling will partner with Laurynn Mize (junior, Sycamore, Ill.) and Hartley will play with Bronwyn Metcalf (sophomore, Pella) in the doubles portion of the regional.
           
"I'm excited about what they can do," Ferrell said. "I think they have a shot of doing some damage. They are all playing pretty tough right now."
           
The first day of the tournament will be Friday at courts all around the Saint Peter area.