VALLEY CITY, N.D. — The Valley City Hi-Liners continued their strong week with a dominant 9-0 sweep of Fargo South on Thursday, showing continued improvement and poise across the board — all while experimenting with lineups in preparation for postseason play.
“With regionals approaching, we used today as an opportunity to test some combinations,” said head coach Matt Nielson. “It was great to see our players rise to the challenge and execute, no matter where they were in the lineup.”
Doubles Teams Click Across the Board
Skye and Kailee Nielson, playing aggressive and confident at No. 1 doubles, shut out their opponents 6-0, 6-0 by attacking second serves and weak returns with poise at the net.
“They played two up much of the match and forced Fargo South to come up with tough shots early,” said Nielson. “That pressure gave us control right away.”
At No. 2, Rylyn Johnson teamed up with senior standout Georgia Zaun, and the chemistry showed in a 6-1, 6-4 win. Rylyn elevated her net play and consistency while Georgia’s rapidly improving net game helped the pair dominate big points.
Chloe Liebersbach and Lexi Svenningsen, both eighth graders, picked up their second doubles win together. The duo controlled their 6-2, 6-1 win by playing smart, high-percentage tennis and improving their positioning.
Singles Play: Confidence and Control
On the singles side, Skye Nielson earned one of the most impressive wins of the day by defeating All-EDC opponent Ruby Hawley 6-3, 6-2.
“Skye played with belief and used her footwork to dictate points — that was a big-time win for her,” Nielson said.
Kailee and Georgia were in full control throughout their matches, losing just three total games combined in straight-set wins. Lexi and Chloe also took care of business — Lexi using smart shot selection and movement, while Chloe delivered another clean, composed performance.
Sara Beierle returned from a minor injury to pick up a solid 6-3, 6-3 win, showing no signs of discomfort while playing a single match to stay healthy for the busy weekend ahead.
Busy Slate Continues
With the win, Valley City improves to 3-1 on the week. The Hi-Liners host a doubleheader Friday against Dickinson (9 a.m.) and Mandan (11 a.m.), followed by a full-squad appearance at the West Fargo Invite on Saturday.
Results
Valley City 9, Fargo South 0
Singles
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Skye Nielson def. Ruby Hawley 6-3, 6-2
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Georgia Zaun def. Morgan Saure 6-1, 6-1
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Kailee Nielson def. Bella Phillips 6-0, 6-1
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Lexi Svenningsen def. Emma Huepal 6-2, 6-2
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Sara Beierle def. Ella Bourke 6-3, 6-3
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Chloe Liebersbach def. Keelie Ehlert 6-1, 6-0
Doubles
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Nielson/Nielson def. Hawley/Saure 6-0, 6-0
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Zaun/Johnson def. Phillips/Bourke 6-1, 6-4
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Svenningsen/Liebersbach def. Huepal/Ehlert 6-2, 6-1