HOMEWOOD, Ill. -- The Eastern Illinois women’s tennis squad hit past Chicago State on Saturday, as the Panthers topped the Cougars, 5-2, at the Homewood-Flossmoor Racquet Club. The win helped even up the EIU mark to 2-2 on the early season.

“This was a quality win for us tonight,” said EIU head coach John Blackburn. “They may have a short roster, but they are very talented, so I’m happy with the win today as it is definitely a good confidence builder.”

EIU singles winners included sophomores Amanda Dibbs and Shannon Brooks winning at the No. 2 and No. 3 spots, respectively, , while newcomer Merritt Whitley picked up a key victory at No. 3. Fellow sophomore Annie Egan also earned a win by default at the No. 6 position as well.

The Panthers garnered the all-important doubles point as the duo of Whitley and Dibbs won at No. 2 duos, while the visitors won at No. 3 thanks to a team forfeit by CSU.

EIU will continue their windy city tour Sunday morning, taking on rival Illinois-Chicago at 10 am, with the match being played at the Evergreen Racquet & Fitness Club.

“UIC is a good, solid squad,” said Blackburn, “who are also very well-coached. Hopefully with our win today, we can use that as a confidence builder and rise up and perform well tomorrow. Should be a good match.”