The Ballard High School boys tennis team suffered a 5-2 defeat at the hands of Issaquah in their first match of the season Sept. 10.

Coach Charles Brenner said his players managed to find ways to win close matches, even when they weren't playing their best.

Ballard's Neal Berg took his match against Kyle Beathy from Issaquah 2-1, by scores of 5-7, 6-1 and 7-5.

In doubles, Ballard's Banks Hunter and Kensei Kawamura beat Issaquah's Nica Hefty and John Brendel 2-1, by scores of 6-0, 1-6 and 6-4.

Brenner said the Beavers need to work on their play close to the net and their overhead shots if they want to improve.

Ballard boys tennis heads to Inglemoor next for a 3:30 p.m. match on Sept. 15.