Republic’s tennis team advanced in the team district tournament with a 5-1 victory over Lebanon in first-round play. The Lady Tigers dominated doubles competition and secured two singles wins to clinch the match.
“Outstanding play in all three doubles matches,” said coach David Smashey. “We got up 4-0 or 4-1 early in all three matches, which really allowed us to play aggressively and confidently.”
Ella Lashley and Paelyn Kaufmann won 8-3 at No. 1 doubles. Mati Carpenter and Aubree Tinsley took No. 2 doubles 8-1, while Payton Schroeder and Brooklyn Douglas matched that score at No. 3.
Singles play proved more competitive, but Republic secured the two wins needed to clinch. Lashley won 6-1, 6-1 at No. 2 singles, and Schroeder prevailed 6-2, 6-2 at No. 3.
Three other singles matches were in progress when Republic clinched. Kaufmann was locked in a tight battle at No. 4 singles, trailing by a set when play was halted. Riley was behind 5-7, 1-4 at No. 5, while Bremer led 7-6 (7-5), 2-2 at No. 6.
The win sets up a rematch with Nixa (11-1) in the next round Tuesday, after Nixa handled Republic earlier in the year.
“We’re a lot better team now than we were when we last played them,” Smashey said. “We’re looking forward to competing with clearly one of the two or three best teams in southwest Missouri.”