NAU Downs Lobos 4-0 to End Non-Conference Slate

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — It was not the way UNM wanted to end non-conference play. Nothern Arizona edged UNM in the doubles point and then took three straight set wins in singles to prevent any sort of comeback attempt and take a 4-0 win over New Mexico, despite UNM in a position to take the remaining three matches.  The Lobos end the non-conference season at 9-7 overall, and will open defense of its 2023 Mountain West title on Thursday against Utah State at McKinnon at 4 pm.

The Lobos dropped the doubles point as all three matches nearly ended simultaneously.  UNM lost matches at Nos. 2 and 3, meaning Arda Azkara and Alex Maggs were denied a win up 6-5, 30-love.

Down 1-0, the ‘Jacks took three singles wins in straight sets.  With no Aram Noroozian in the lineup, Georgio Samaha moved up to No. 3 and fell to Maikel De Boes 6-3, 6-2.  Avery Tallakson’s winning streak ended at three with a 6-4, 6-2 loss at No. 6 to Maciej Ziomber, and Alex Maggs fell by the identical score to Jakub Pracher.

The Lobos’ Arthur Bellegy was close to a win at the clinch, leading 4-6, 6-4, 3-0 at No. 2 over Dani Torres, and Arda Azkara was on his way to another comeback, trailing at No. 1 5-7, 5-3 over Dominik Buzonics.  Rafael Abdulsalam was almost to a win in his match at No. 4, leading 6-4, 4-3.