Air Force men’s tennis lost to UC Irvine by a score of 4-2 on March 14 at the Anteater Tennis Stadium in Irvine, California.
The match was decided after UC Irvine secured the doubles point and then won three out of five singles matches. Senior AJ Moore and sophomore Langdon Tingleaf were the two Falcons players who earned singles victories. Moore, who is from Irvine, defeated Max Fardanesh in straight sets, 7-5, 6-4. Tingleaf came back after losing the first set to win against Sohrob Amiryavari with scores of 1-6, 6-1, 6-0.
UC Irvine took an early lead by winning the first singles match. Air Force tied the contest at 2-2 following wins by Tingleaf and Moore. However, UC Irvine clinched the overall victory by winning at No. 6 and No. 5 singles positions in three-set matches.
Head coach Evan Urbina said, “Our team showed tremendous growth from yesterday. In doubles, we need to continue to hit our shots, expecting great returns, and close out points. In singles, Langdon completely turned things around after losing the first and brought incredible energy throughout the match. Matt was serving for the match and showed how tough he can be. AJ, playing in front of his family and friends, was amazing in the pressure moments. At the end, unfortunately, we weren’t able to get the win, but how we competed builds confidence and trust for the future. Excited to get back on the practice court. Go Falcons!”
Air Force will return to action on Sunday, March 22 against San Diego State.
