ERIE, Pa. — The West Liberty Hilltoppers men's tennis team opened their spring season with an impressive 5-2 victory over Penn State Behrend Friday at the Westwood Racquet Club.

West Liberty secured the doubles point by winning two of the three matches. Ignacio Giurfa and Ethan Shepard teamed up for a strong 6-2 victory at No. 2 doubles, while Chris Burns and Pablo Zubieta earned a 6-2 win at No. 3. Penn State Behrend claimed the No. 1 doubles match.

Leading 1-0 entering singles play, the Hilltoppers won four of the six flights to clinch the team victory. 

In No.1 singles play Pablo Zubieta defeated  Owen Sinnott  6-4, 6-1. 

Ignacio Giurfa delivered a gritty performance at No. 2 singles, battling to a 0-6, 7-6 comeback win. Ethan Shepard dominated at No. 3 singles with a 6-4, 6-0 victory, and Barney Cowan rolled to a 6-1, 6-0 win at No. 4.

Austin Zgurski added another point at No. 5 singles with a 6-2, 6-4 decision, while Luke Vunora pushed his opponent in a competitive 6-4, 7-5 match at No. 6.

The Hilltoppers return to action Saturday as they face Daemen at 5 p.m.



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.