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Gophers Ready to Host Buckeyes, Nittany Lions
3/18/2021 1:30:00 PM | Men's Tennis
Another ranked foe awaits for Minnesota
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - The University of Minnesota men's tennis team is set to kick off a four-match home stand after sweeping a pair matches on the road last weekend, including an upset victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes.
The No. 45 Gophers will first take on No. 12 Ohio State on Friday, March 19, before hosting another Sunday matchup against Penn State on March 21.
Setting the Stage
The Maroon & Gold come into the weekend on a hot streak, winning three straight matches and winning four out of the last five.
The highlight of the year so far has been the success of doubles pairing Vlad Lobak and Siim Troost, already matching their win total from last year sitting at 8-2. Last weekend, they two earned another ranked victory, this time beating the No. 17 pairing of Will Davies and Oliver Okonkwo of Iowa.
Tale of the Tape - The Buckeyes
Ohio State has been a perennial contender in the men's tennis scene, and this year is no different. Led by four top 100 singles players and three-ranked doubles pairings, the Buckeyes come into this weekend at 9-2, with their last match being a defeat against the Michigan Wolverines.
Minnesota is 36-40 all-time against Ohio State, with the Buckeyes taking the last 23 matchups dating back to 2003. The Gophers last victory in the series was in the 2003 B1G Tournament, where the "U" won 4-1 in Evanston, Illinois.
Tale of the Tape - The Nittany Lions
Penn State has had a tumultuous year so far at 3-4, with all losses so far on the season coming against ranked opponents. The Nittany Lions are led by their No. 1 slot singles player Christian Lakoseljec.
Minnesota has won three out of the last five against Penn State, with their last win coming on April 1, 2018 at Baseline Tennis Center
How to Follow Along:
Follow along on Twitter at @GopherMTennis for live updates throughout the weekend, and look for a recap following this weekend's action on GopherSports.com.