SARTELL, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Morris men's tennis team overcame an immediate 2-0 deficit on Thursday against Crown College, rallying for a 5-4 win over the Polars. The victory put the Cougars at 2-5 (1-3 UMAC) on the season.

Minnesota Morris only had five players available on Thursday, so Crown was granted a 2-0 lead by virtue of automatic wins at No. 3 doubles and No. 6 singles. With a split of the two remaining doubles matches, the Polars took a 3-1 lead into singles play. Marshall O'Meara and Will Marsan earned what turned out to be a vital point at No. 2 doubles with an 8-1 win.

Though Crown triumphed in the No. 1 match for its fourth point of the day, Minnesota Morris won the remaining four singles matches to come from behind and get the win. Carver Hammond took the No. 2 singles match, 6-1, 6-3. O'Meara earned a 6-1, 6-4 win at No. 3. At No. 4, Marsan toughed out a 6-4, 6-3 victory. Finally, at No. 5, Max Gmuender cruised to a 6-1, 6-2 win.

Due to a lack of available players, Minnesota Morris is forfeiting tomorrow afternoon's scheduled match with Bethany Lutheran College. The Cougars are back in action on Sunday afternoon, facing Martin Luther College at 1 p.m. in New Ulm.