The Hillsdale College women's tennis team is getting closer to victory. But close wasn't quite close enough Saturday in Big Rapids.

In a match that featured three freshman singles starters, Hillsdale lost a hard-fought decision to Ferris State University 5-4, dropping the Chargers to 0-3 on the season. The team wraps up a grueling three-day road trip Sunday at GLIAC power Grand Valley State.

Hillsdale's depth in the singles flights was a positive, as sophomore Lindsay Peirce and freshman Jada Bissett won at No, 4 and 5 singles, respectively. It was the first career victory for Bissett, which came by a 7-6, 6-4 score. Peirce's win was by an identical margin.

Sisters Morgan and Sydney Delp were also victorious at No. 1 doubles, earning an 8-4 win. Sydney, the younger Delp, rolled to a 6-4, 6-2 win at No. 2 singles for the Chargers.

Ferris State edged Hillsdale in three sets at No. 1 and No. 3 singles, while Charger freshman Amberley Bailey made a strong showing in her collegiate debut, losing a closely played 6-3, 7-5 decision at No. 6 singles.

Full results from the match can be found below.

Ferris State 5, Hillsdale College 4
Sep 14, 2013 at Big Rapids, Mich. (FSU Racquet & Fitness Center)