Men's tennis splits weekend in Bethlehem, Pa.

SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Bryant University men's tennis team put up another strong showing over the weekend, splitting a pair of matches Sunday; falling to Marist, 4-2, before rallying to earn an impressive victory over defending Patriot League champion Lehigh, 4-1, in Bethlehem, Pa.

Against the reigning MAAC Champions, senior Dana Parziale (Pinehurst, N.C.) and freshman Oliver Welsh (San Diego, Calif.) picked up the two points for the Bulldogs with Parziale earning a 6-3, 6-2 win over Lorenzo Rossi at the no. 1 spot before Welsh topped Will Reznek, 7-6, 6-2, in the three spot.

In the second leg of the doubleheader, Bryant showed no signs of fatigue, fighting all the way to a huge 4-1 victory over Lehigh. Parziale and Welsh led the charge once again from the first and second singles spots, respectively, with the freshman roaring past previously undefeated Jeremy Kochman, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5. Junior Zachary Morris (Garden City, N.Y.) was impressive in the three hole, taking care of Timur Chernykh, 6-1, 7-5, and classmate Ernesto Arguello (Managua, Nicaragua) took down Tyler Hansen, 6-4, 6-3, at the no. 4 spot.

"This weekend was truly a grind," said head coach Ron Gendron. "Playing these doubleheaders as he have done all spring has really challenged our guys, and they have rose to the occasion despite grueling nine-hour days. As a team we were terrific, but Oliver, specifically, established himself as a force to be reckoned with and Dana just continues to roll at the number one spot."

"We are pleased to have split with the reigning MAAC and Patriot League Champions and are preparing to complete the toughest portion of our spring schedule."

Looking ahead, Bryant will face off with #56 Buffalo on Friday (6 p.m.) in East Providence, R.I., before visiting #30 Harvard on Saturday (6 p.m.) in Cambridge.

For all the latest news on the Bryant University men's tennis team, visit BryantBulldogs.com.