Feb. 5, 2015
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The No. 23 Vanderbilt Commodores host the MTSU Blue Raiders Friday afternoon at 2 p.m.. Friday’s match will be Vandy’s last home competition until SEC season begins, as the `Dores host Ole Miss on March 1st.
Vandy comes off a successful performance last weekend, defeating Big 10’s Indiana and Michigan, 4-3. Senior Suresh Eswaran clinched both matches for the `Dores. With the two wins the Commodores own a 6-2 mark. Vanderbilt’s two losses came at the hands of Northwestern and South Florida.
Both senior Gonzales Austin and freshman Daniel Valent have developed streaks; Austin won his seventh match in a row against Michigan. Valent, who has earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors once so far this season, is on an 11-match win streak, dating back to Nov. 7th.
Scouting the Blue Raiders:
MTSU travels to West End for its first road test with a 4-1 record. The Blue Raider’s sole loss came against then No. 31 NC State; defeating Chattanooga, Murray State, Jackson State, and Tennessee Tech.
Last Time:
While the two teams competed throughout tournament season, during their last dual match meeting Vandy defeated MTSU, 6-1. The Blue Raiders have not earned more than one match point since the 2009-2010 season.
Looking Ahead:
The Commodores travel Cambridge, Mass. to take on Minnesota Feb. 20th and Harvard Feb. 22nd.
Commodore Q&A: FR Danny Valent
On differences between Switzerland and the USA:
“It’s easier to get to know people and meet new people. Sports are much more important here, like last weekend with the Super Bowl everyone was going crazy.”
On classes:
“I’ve learned a lot. I’ve taken classes that I didn’t have in Switzerland, like I go to music class now, and sociology, but most of all I enjoy chemistry.”
On 11-match win streak:
“I don’t think about the win streak, I just want the team to succeed. I’d rather have the situation where I lose and the team wins. Something I’ve learned here in the United States is the value of the team. Always put the team first.”
Rankings:
Singles:
Gonzales Austin (VU); No. 10
Rhys Johnson (VU); No. 73
Doubles:
Austin/Johnson; No. 5