FORT SMITH, Ark. - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Men's Tennis began its 2023 campaign Saturday, hosting NCAA I Illinois State at the Fort Smith Athletic Club.

The Lions held their own against the higher division foe before settling for a 6-1 defeat.

UAFS split the first two doubles matches, with Anis Ramchane and Killian Darneaux collecting a 6-2 win at No. 1. With the doubles point on the line, Juan Patino and Nicolas Retamales battled to the end but ultimately fell, 7-5.

Ramchane went up against the reigning Summit League Player of the Year at No. 1 singles where he played to a 6-1, 6-3 defeat.

Eduardo Bribiesca picked up the lone singles win for the Lions at No. 3, winning 6-2, 6-7, 7-5. Darneaux also went three sets at No. 4, but was on the wrong end of a 2-6, 7-5, 3-10 decision.

A third match to go the distance, Retamales was defeated 6-2, 3-6, 8-10 at No. 6.

The Lions will have two weeks off before resuming play February 18 at University of the Ozarks.