URBANDALE, Iowa – Iowa State turned back South Dakota in a women's tennis season opener on Saturday morning inside Life Time Fitness.
 
The Cyclones edged the Coyotes 4-2, winning the doubles point and taking three of the five singles matches that were completed.
 
"Credit to Iowa state for pulling out a tough win," coach Brett Barnett said. "First match of the year and we went ball for ball with a Big 12 program that has been to the NCAA tournament the last 3 yrs."
 
"I'm so proud of how we fought and competed today."
 
Selena Bird and Anna Medvyedyeva, a pair of sophomores, recorded singles victories for South Dakota.
 
Bird earned a 6-3, 6-3 win at No. 6 singles while Medvyedyeva was up a set when her opponent retired leading 4-3 in the second set.
 
Grace Chadick's match at No. 4 singles was left unfinished after Iowa State recorded the team victory. The junior led 5-4 in the second set after dropping the first set in a tie-break.
 
Paige Alter, a fifth-year senior, suffered a narrow 6-4, 6-4 defeat at No. 5 singles.
 
"Selena and Anna played great tennis, dictated play and deserved to win," said Barnett. "We fought everywhere and Grace was two pts from splitting and Paige was right there. 
 
"We've got some things to work on for sure but if we play with this belief, fight and energy it's going to be a fun season. I can't wait to play again tomorrow."
 
South Dakota concludes the two-match road swing with a neutral site contest against Missouri State on Sunday morning at Life Time Fitness.