Army will have its hands full when it opens the season against the Penn women's tennis team today -- the No. 36 ranked team in the nation.
Although the Cadets have won three straight Patriot League titles and have earned a reputation as a scrappy team that does not give up, the Quakers are not fazed.
"There are no excuses not to win this game," Penn sophomore Alice Pirsu said.
On paper, Penn is clearly the better team. No. 24 Pirsu, who just came off a near victory against No. 5 Nataly Cahana of Old Dominion, will be facing a non-ranked player today.
Last season, the Quakers defeated Army in a 7-0 shutuout, and Penn is confident it can wipe out Army again this year.
Asked if the Cadets would be a tough opponent for the Quakers, the ever-confident Pirsu stood by her team.
"We're tough," she said.
Sophomore Rachel Shweky echoed her teammate's pride, wondering as to what this tough Army mystique was.
"Maybe they are physically tough," she said.
Yet, despite their confidence, the Quakers are cautious not to underestimate their opponents.
"There is no such thing as a bad team in tennis," Pirsu said. "Any team could win on any given day."
Rather, Penn views this as a must-win match. With their record at 1-2, the Red and Blue are hoping for a blowout to boost their record and their morale.
"The game is not just about getting a win, the score is also important in terms of our confidence," Pirsu said. "As our season continues, I want all of our teammates to feel good about themselves and their records."
Penn sophomore captain Sanela Kunovac is focusing on consistency and routine leading up to the Army match.
"You can't control your opponent but you can control what happens on your side of the net," Kunovac said. "We just want to follow the same routine as always."
The Quakers will certainly be well-rested for today's match as it is their first contests in 10 days.
In its last match, Penn dropped a tough 5-2 decision to No. 49 William and Mary.
This lengthy rest is also welcomed by the Quakers because following today's match, Penn is slated for consecutive matchups with Seton Hall and in-state rival, No. 50 Penn State.
But first the Quakers have their focus squarely on the Cadets.
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