LAGRANGE, Ga. — The Averett University women's tennis team defeated Huntingdon College 5-3 in the quarterfinals of the USA South Conference Tournament on Friday to advance to tomorrow's semifinal round.
 
After the completion of doubles play, Averett (13-5) held the 2-1 lead over Huntingdon (14-5). The freshmen pair of Inka Zeilstra and Kristina Hedelt won 8-2 at No. 2 doubles before senior Heidi Sarkkinen and sophomore Eleanor Crane won their ninth consecutive victory at No. 1 doubles by an 8-4 score line.
 
The Hawks registered the first win in singles play at the sixth slot to tie the match at two. Sarkkinen, ranked 21st nationally and 15th regionally, regained the lead for the Cougars with a 6-0, 6-2 victory at No. 1 singles. However, Huntingdon would not go away as the Hawks won at No. 5 singles to bring things even once again.
 
The Cougars did not waver, though, as Averett went on to win the match 5-3 with wins at No. 4 singles and No. 2 singles. Hedelt collected the 6-3, 6-1 victory in the fourth slot and Crane clinched the match for the Cougars with a 7-6, 6-4 triumph in the second slot.
 
Averett takes on N.C. Wesleyan College in the semifinal round tomorrow afternoon. First serve is set for 2 p.m.