The boys tennis team defeated Pittsburgh Central Catholic 3-2 overall on Monday, securing a spot in the WPIAL playoffs.

Freshman Brandon Esek said the team was consistent and made some strong shots. 

“Our shots were very on point and we kept hitting it over the net consistently,” Esek said. “We hit the ball into a position where they weren’t able to get to it easily.”

Juniors Nikita Petruk and Carter Smeal won their solo matches. Seniors Samuel Vogel and Kelson Kleinhampl won their doubles match.

Esek said Smeal and Petruk really stood out, winning their matches in two sets.

“Nikita and Carter both won in two sets,” Esek said. “Nikita’s serves were really powerful, and the other kid couldn’t return them too well. He overpowered him.”

Central Catholic and Baldwin had similarities in their games.

“The other team also had good placement,” Esek said. “They had a lot of good drop shots that we couldn’t get to.”

The team can also work on some weaknesses to improve and prepare for their first round of playoffs.

“Right now, we can definitely improve on our serve accuracy,” Esek said. “Also, we can work on our motivation and finishing matches. Sometimes we just can’t close out matches, and our morale drops.”

The tennis team is doing well this season, with a record of 3-2 in the section and 5-6 overall.

Their next match is Wednesday at Canon McMillan High School, followed by a home game against Seneca Valley on Thursday.