ROCHESTER, MINN. — In the season opener for both teams, the Central College men's tennis team lost to Bethel University (Minn.) 8-1 on Saturday night.
           
The Dutch (0-1) opened the season against the Royals (1-0) for the third year in a row.
           
"I like playing this team because it really shows what we need to work on, especially in doubles," coach Ryun Ferrell said. "They serve big and we have to play smart to beat them."
           
Central got a win from No. 5 singles player Brad DiLeo (sophomore, Iowa City, West HS) by a 6-4, 4-6, 10-6 margin.
           
"Brad's not a precison player, he's a sledgehammer," Ferrell said. "When he is on, he is one of the toughest players you can ever play against. He caught a little fire today and really pushed his opponent."
           
No. 2 player David Boschma (junior, Olathe, Kan., Northwest HS) pushed it to three sets but ultimately lost 6-3, 3-6, 10-7.
           
"I don't remember the last time we were this competitive with this team up and down the lineup," Ferrell said. "We looked pretty good for our first time out and with only four days of practice."
           
Central's difficult start to the season continues next Sunday at Grinnell College for a 9 a.m. match.
           
"It's a tough back-to-back," Ferrell said. "But it's necessary for us to win a conference title. For us to beat the best teams in our conference, we have to play teams that are as good as them if not better."