CHAPMAN — It was do-or-die for the Union County tennis team on Thursday when it traveled to Chapman to face the second ranked team in Region III-AAA. Hungry for a playoff bid, the Jackets made quick work of the Panthers, handing them a 5-1 loss to tie for the No. 2 spot with four region matches remaining.

“Chapman beat us earlier in the year 5-2, but I felt like we were a better team than the one that showed up that day and I was right,” said Union County Head Coach Tom Adamo. “Our kids really stepped up to the task Thursday with the must win match to stay alive for a playoff spot.”

It was business as usual for Union County’s No. 1 singles player, Matt Haney. The senior handled his Chapman opponent to give the Jackets an early 1-0 lead. Dale Patterson followed with a win from the No. 3 spot before the Panthers cut the lead back to one as David Kicidis took a tough loss. The Jackets made it a 3-1 game when Trent Ivey and Jacob Gault won in straight sets from the No. 2 doubles position.

“Jacob took over the match with his play at the net,” noted Adamo. “He was a beast.”

Meanwhile, Andrew Adamo and Tyler Gregory had entered into third set tie breakers in their respective matches.

Adamo, Union County’s No. 2 singles player, finished his opponent, 10-5. As a heavy rainfall began, Gregory closed with a 10-8 victory from the No. 5 singles position.

“This was a big win that our guys really fought for,” said Adamo. “I’m not sure if it was the line-up adjustment I made or the incentive of me buying supper if we won, I guess I will never know.”

In order to claim sole possession of the No. 2 spot in Region III-AAA, Union County will need some help.

A Chapman loss to either Woodruff or Broome next week would do the job, provided that the Jackets take care of business and win their match against Clinton.

Thursday’s Results

In Singles Play

#1 Matt Haney (UC) defeated Edwards (C) 6-3,6-2

#2 Andrew Adamo (UC) defeated Haley (C) 4-6, 6-4, (10-5)

#3 Dale Patterson (UC) defeated Smith (C) 6-4, 6-4

#4 Church (C) defeated David Kicidis (UC) 6-3, 6-1

#5 Tyler Gregory (UC) defeated Deam (C) 6-7, 6-4, (10-8)

In Doubles

#2 Jacob Gault/ Trent Ivey (UC) defeated Deoung/Wagner (C) 6-4, 7-6