March 22, 2012

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky women’s tennis team begins a seven-match Southeastern Conference streak this weekend with matches against No. 64 Auburn and No. 15 Alabama. The Wildcats will first hit the road to Auburn, Ala., to take on the Tigers on Friday at Noon ET. UK will return home to Lexington host Alabama at Noon ET on Sunday at the Hilary J. Boone Varsity Tennis Complex.

The Wildcats are coming off of a nine-day break after canceling last week’s match against Miami (Fla.), due to inclement weather.

Kentucky will depend on breakout freshmen Edmée Morin-Kougoucheff and Stephanie Fox, along with quasi-veterans Khristina Blajkevitch and Jessica Stiles, for success this weekend. Singles victories from all four, along with strong doubles performances have been essential for the Wildcats.

The team will look to these anchors to gain its first win in SEC play. With two heartbreaking 4-3, losses, the Wildcats are looking for that extra push to propel them to a victory.

Both Auburn and Alabama provide tough competition for the Cats. Auburn boasts a quality victory over No. 37 Arkansas, while the Crimson Tide are on a five-game winning streak including victories over four SEC opponents.

For live stats for Friday’s match, go to http://www.auburntigers.com/livestats/w-tennis/032312/xlive.htm and check out /sports/w-tennis/spec-rel/stats_032512.html for Sunday’s live stats.

For continuing coverage of UK women’s tennis log on to UKathletics.com.