HOUGHTON, Mich. -- Michigan Tech gained its first two men's tennis wins of 2007 today at the Gates Tennis Center. The Huskies knocked off Ripon this morning and St. Scholastica in an evening tilt by identical 5-4 scores.

In the opening match, Tech took two of the three doubles points and three of the six singles points. Brandon Ellefson and Alan Parenteau combined for an 8-2 win at number three doubles, while Justin Foley and Rick Halverson claimed an 8-4 number two doubles triumph.

Because of an injury to Foley during doubles, the Huskies adjusted their singles lineup. Ellefson played number three, where he won in three sets, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-1, to put the team up 3-1. Andy Sims dropped a three-set match at number five singles before Brett Girard and Matt Tronnes clinched the team victory. Girard's win came 6-4, 6-2 at number one, while Tronnes' three-set decision (6-2, 3-6, 7-6(4)) at number six was the first match of his collegiate career.

"Matt's win proved to be critical," said head coach Mike Axford. "For him to step up and win a third set tiebreaker in his first match was huge, as was Brandon's win at three after moving up a position."

Against St. Scholastica, Tech swept the doubles points, which proved to be critical. Sims filled in for Foley at number two doubles in an 8-5 victory.

Girard won his third match of the season by cruising to a 6-2, 6-2 score at number one. St. Scholastica drew within 4-1 on a 6-2, 6-3 victory at number two singles. Ellefson then secured the team victory with a 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 triumph at number three singles. Ellefson finished the day undefeated at 4-0.

Parenteau played a three-set marathon at number four singles, but was edged, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 7-5. Chris Calder and Sims were defeated in straight sets for the final team score of 5-4.

"It was a good team effort today," said Axford. "We played more aggressively in doubles and that payed off. This will hopefully be a good springboard for us heading into next weekend."

Michigan Tech (2-5) will host a trio of opponents next weekend at the Gates Tennis Center, with matches against Lewis (9 a.m.) and Ferris State (5 p.m.) Saturday (Feb. 24) and Lake Superior State (1 p.m.) Sunday (Feb. 25).