MCKENZIE, Tenn.-- Cumberland women's tennis faced a tough 5-2 loss against the Bethel Wildcats.
  The Phoenix started strong in doubles, with Maria Arbelaez and Laura Zugasti dominating the first position, defeating Sophia Canto and Marina Oliveira 6-1. Despite a strong response from Bethel in the second position, Cumberland clinched the doubles point as Alexandra Leisibach and Madeline Darud secured a 6-2 victory over Cloe Cadado and Martina Coghetto.

In singles play, Bethel gained momentum, securing four consecutive victories. Maria Arbelaez fought hard but ultimately fell in a third-set tiebreak at the top singles spot 6-2, 6-4, 7-5. After a swift win at No. 2, the Wildcats earned their second tiebreak singles match of the day as Zugasti fell 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.

Darud was the sole Cumberland player to win a singles match, securing the team's second and final point of the day in the No. 5 position. She defeated Canto with a score of 7-5, 1-6. Despite the win, Bethel's strong performance secured the overall victory.

Cumberland will be back at home next Friday, March 22, to kick off a three-game stint of home matches. The team will face Freed-Hardeman at the Tommy Gray Memorial Courts with a 1 PM start time.