DENVER – The Metropolitan State University of Denver men's tennis team has been sharpening itself into competition shape with exhibitions against a number of Division I foes until the spring season begins.

The Roadrunners traveled just across town for another exhibition against a tough opponent on Friday, facing the University of Denver at Denver Tennis Park. MSU Denver dropped the dual by a 7-0 score but gained crucial experience heading into a grueling spring schedule.

"Although we didn't get the result, I think we gained some valuable lessons," coach Josh Graetz said following the match. "We still have some specific doubles things we need to patch up, but overall I'm pleased with how we're competing."

Brothers Jack McDermott and Billy McDermott fell to the Pioneers by a 6-1 score in No. 1 doubles, while No. 2 doubles pair Mateo Besada and Daniel Llorente dropped their contest by the same result. Jordi Ribera and Alejandro Martinez-Morilla were tied in their doubles match, 3-3, before it was suspended as Denver won the doubles point.

Llorente lost to Denver's Matt Summers in No. 1 singles (6-2, 6-1), while Besada put up a strong fight in No. 2 singles before losting to Pioneer Mattia Ros by a 6-4, 6-3 score. In No. 3 singles, Martinez-Morilla fell to James Davis, 6-3, 6-2.

David Kijak exhibited a strong effort in the second set of his No. 4 singles match, but eventually succumbed to Ignatius Castelino by a 6-2, 7-6 score. Billy McDermott stole a set from Ignacio Crespo in No. 5 singles before Crespo eventually won, 6-2, 1-6, 6-3. In the No. 6 singles slot, Jordi Ribera fell to John Zakowski by a 6-1, 6-1 count.

The MSU Denver men will enter their true competition season again on Feb. 28 when they host Montana State at 10 a.m. at the Regency Athletic Complex.