PELLA — Facing a pair of tough Minnesota programs, including the No. 17 team in Division III, the Central College men's tennis team suffered two losses Saturday.
           
Central (1-2) fell 7-2 in the opener against St. Olaf College (Minn.) and then lost 9-0 to No. 17 Gustavus Adolphus College in the second match.
           
"These types of matches are great because they expose what you're not good at," coach Ryun Ferrell said. "They force you to do whatever it is that you're not good at. It gives us a sense on what we need to work on to get better."
           
Matthew Den Adel (senior, Ankeny, Centennial HS) had one of Central's two points on the day, winning 0-6, 6-0, 1-0 at No. 5 singles. He finished his weekend 2-1 after winning Friday night against Bethel.
           
"I've said it once and I'll see it again, he's by far the most improved player I've coached in 28 years," Ferrell said. "He's become such a formidable player. I've personally played against him, and he is so hard to get the ball past. You just can't do it."
           
Ayden Fletcher (sophomore, Waukee) scored the other Dutch point with a 6-4, 7-5 win at No. 4 singles.
           
Despite the losses, Ferrell say some positive things on the court.
           
"We played better than we did last night, especially in doubles," Ferrell said. "We had a lot of opportunities. Both teams were just older, more experienced teams that don't make a lot of mistakes."
           
Central makes its home debut next Saturday, hosting Midland University (Neb.) at noon inside H.S. Kuyper Fieldhouse.
           
"It'll be nice to be at home and just do one match," Ferrell said. "We're looking forward to playing on our home courts."