The Central College women’s tennis team had a unique start to its season Saturday, playing five dual matches in two different locations and using 20 different players to secure a 2-3 record.

Central was victorious 8-1 in its only home match against Monmouth College (Ill.). The Dutch also split into two groups at the seven-team North Central Invitational. Central defeated Elmhurst University 9-0, lost twice to North Central College 9-0 and dropped a 6-3 decision against the Illinois Institute of Technology.

In the closest match of the day against Illinois Tech, Central raced to a 2-1 lead after doubles but dropped five of six singles matches. Three of those losses came in three-set affairs. Alyssa Lewton won her No. 2 singles match in three sets 5-7, 6-3, 10-7. Head Coach Ryun Ferrell says with such a large roster, the experience gained from these split-squad days is invaluable.

Central travels to Coe College on Saturday for a 10 a.m. match.