ST. LOUIS – After scoring a 5-4 win over Baker (Kan.) in the morning slot of the American Midwest Conference/Heart of America Athletic Conference Tournament, Missouri Baptist ran into one of the best teams in the nation. The No. 8 ranked Owls knocked the Spartans out of the tournament in the semifinals 5-1.

Missouri Baptist (7-8) grabbed its first match over Baker in the first match of the day. After dropping two of three doubles matches, the Spartans rebounded with four wins in singles to steal the victory in the Wildcats' back yard.

James Tobin and Lucas Olivera grabbed the lone doubles win of the match in an 8-6 decision.

In singles, the Spartans dropped matches at the top two positions, but swept Nos. 3-6. Tobin got the ball rolling with a 6-3, 6-4 victory. At No. 4, Dylan Walker picked-up a straight set victory as well, along with Nicoy Rolle at No. 6.

The most interesting matchup of the morning session came at No. 5 as Sean Nanney went three sets with Austin Keberlein in three one-sided decisions. Nanney took the matchup 6-1, 1-6, 6-0.

Missouri Baptist advanced to the semifinals with the win, but struggled against Williams Woods (Mo.). Missouri Baptist took No. 1 doubles, but was unable to grab another team point.

The Spartans ended their season just one win shy of .500 at 7-8.