LOS ANGELES, Calif. - The 23rd-ranked Southwestern University women's tennis team put together a great showing against defending National Champion and No. 2 ranked Williams, eventually falling 9-0 on the campus of the University of Southern California.

"It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to play at USC and I can't thank Alison Swain and Chris Wootton enough for making this happen," said Head Coach Billy Porter.

In doubles action, the Ephs would sweep the Pirates to take a 3-0 lead; however, Southwestern put together an incredible effort including strong showings by junior Anna Schneemann and sophomore Mary Cardone in a 8-3 loss at one doubles and senior Nicole Wilson and Maranda Kahl in an 8-4 loss at three doubles.

"Our doubles was fantastic comparatively to the other matches we've played against the premier teams," said Porter.

In singles, the Pirates showed great fight, but eventually would be swept. Junior Taite Drews-Jones took a set at two singles, winning the first set 6-4 before falling 6-1, 6-0. Schneemann put together a good fight at No. 3 singles, falling 6-3, 6-3 while freshman Esther Bowers dropped a close first set 7-5 before ultimately falling in set two 6-2.

"Loved our fight in singles," said Porter. "It was a building block for us to continue to become prepared for SCAC's."

Southwestern will return home from California and prepare for action on Thursday as they will take on Howard Payne on the road at 4:30 PM.