The John Carroll women's tennis team took an important step forward in OAC play Saturday afternoon, defeating Otterbein University, 5-4, on the strength of five singles victories at Paramount Tennis Club in Medina, Ohio.

Since dropping their first OAC match of 2012 to Ohio Northern on March 24, the Blue Streaks have now won three straight in league play.

Box Score

Cassie Simmelink got things going for JCU with a 6-1, 7-5 victory at #2 singles.  She was then joined by a parade of Blue Streaks in the winner's circle, as the third through sixth singles players recorded wins over Otterbein opponents to claim the narrow team victory.

Freshman Joanne Weber (6-1, 6-2), freshman Erin Davies (6-2, 7-6), junior Emily Gorndt (6-4, 6-3) and freshman Hannah Baumwell (6-4, 6-3) all scored wins for the Blue & Gold.

JCU did not record a doubles victory on the day, falling 8-4, 8-6, and 8-6 in competitive matches to the Cardinals.

With the win, the Blue Streaks improve to 8-3 overall and 3-1 in the OAC.