Throughout the 2009 men's tennis campaign the Eastern University team has found success in doubles, and when they have struggled it has been in the singles portion of the match. So coach Mark Spangler had concerns early when his charges dropped second and third doubles at Misericordia University Thursday afternoon.

The Eastern men, however, had other ideas. Led by senior Taylor Kiser's 7-6, 7-6 marathon win at fourth singles, the Eagles won five singles matches to emerge with an important 6-3 league win. The victory moves the Eagles into a tie with Misericordia for fourth with two matches to play. The Eagles control their own destiny and will earn a spot in the Freedom Conference team tournament with wins over Alvernia and FDU-Florham, who are tied for sixth with one league win apiece.

Michael Roth and Jordan Gates combined to control the top third of the order with a convincing 8-1 win in doubles and efficient straight set wins at first and second singles. Bryan Arnett and Kiser struggled to an 8-4 loss against a strong Misericordia second doubles team, but they each battled back to take important singles matches. Arnett effectively clinched the match with his 6-0, 6-3 win at number three. 

Arnett's victory came just minutes after Dan Wilson won 6-2, 6-3 at fifth singles. Spangler said of the win, "This was a big one for us. We knew going in that this was going to be a pivotal match for us in terms of making the tournament and they guys came through big time in singles play."

The Eagles host FDU-Florham on Saturday.