HOBOKEN, NJ – The Hartwick Hawks dropped a close decision today losing to Stevens (4-0, 4-0) by a count of 5-4. The loss drops the Hawks from the unbeaten ranks at 2-1 and to 1-1 in the Empire 8 Conference.
           
The Hawks were down 2-1 after doubles competition, with the third doubles team of Lauren Noyes (Rochester, NY/Churchville-Chili) and Caitlin O'Brien (Glenville, NY/Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake) losing a close match 8-6. The lone doubles point was secured by sisters Kelly Napolitano (Mt. Sinai, NY/Mt. Sinai) and Kristen Napolitano (Mt Sinai, NY/Mt. Sinai) edging their opponents 9-7. The duo was able to save a match point en route to the victory.
           
The Hawks were able to win three singles matches on the afternoon. O'Brien stayed unbeaten at the 5th singles spot only dropping four games, 6-0, 6-4. The Napolitano sisters also remained unbeaten in singles both winning close matches. Kelly prevailed at third singles 7-6 (7-3), 6-3 and Kristen held on to win in a third set super tiebreaker 6-2, 3-6, 10-7.
           
The Hawks return to Empire 8 competition on Saturday at home against Alfred University.