ALLIE SEVERE returns a shot for Webster City against South Hardin in the season opener. (DFJ photo by David Borer)

The Webster City girls tennis squad opened their season with a home match against South Hardin on Thursday.

The Lynx dropped a 6-3 decision.

“I’m very happy with the way the girls played against a good, veteran team,” WCHS head coach Mark Fisher said. “We knew going in that we’re young and lack some experience as we have a lot of girls playing their first varsity matches, and some playing their first tennis matches period.

“Our girls came out and really battled and improved a ton as their matches progressed. If a couple of balls had been hit differently here or there, this could easily have been a 5-4 team win. I am really excited about this group. It’s been really fun so far watching this team develop.”

Gabbie Sebert, a freshman, picked up a 10-3 victory in singles for Webster City from the No. 4 varsity position. Sophomore Alivia Burns pulled out an 11-10 win in the fifth slot for the other singles triumph.

In doubles competition, Perla Torres and Sebert prevailed for the Lynx, 10-7.

“Big night for Gabbie,” Fisher said. “She jumped out early in her singles match. Loved the way she controlled the ball and points. It’s really fun to see a freshman be able to construct points and set up some shots like she did.

“Alivia stepped into her first-ever tennis action with a big singles win that kept us alive in the match at the time. Real back and forth match all the way. She showed real grit as she got down 8-9, and battled back to 10-9 before dropping a game to bring it to a tiebreaker. It will be fun to watch her as she gets more comfortable, as she has already grown by leaps and bounds.”

Fisher was also pleased with the victory in doubles action.

“That was a big win for Gabbie and Perla,” Fisher said. “They made a few adjustments early on, that helped catapult them. But what was even more fun was watching them develop chemistry on the court and finding their strengths together.”

Karina Murray scored a JV singles victory for the Lynx.

Webster City returns to action on Monday at home against North Polk at 4:30 p.m.