The Albert Lea boys’ tennis doubles teams had a pair of problems against Austin. All three teams got off to a slow start dropping the first set, and after rebounding to take the second they were unable to win the big points in the third.

The Tigers ended up dropping a 6-1 decision to the Packers on a cold and windy day at the Southwest Middle School tennis courts.

The Tigers’ top team of Andrew Dyrdal and Corey Dieser lost for just the second time this season 2-6, 6-2, 4-6.

Jon Hatcher and Jon Bosma lost the first set 3-6, rebounded convincingly in the second but dropped the third 3-6.

Josh Svendsen and Josh Vu fell 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.

&8220;We just got off to a slow start in all three (doubles) matches,&8221; said Albert Lea head coach Tom Dyrdal. &8220;The kids were disappointed after the match, and we are going to try some new things in our warmups so we can come out a little better.&8221;

Falling by a single break in two of the matches stung even more with the Tigers simply unable to get a few key points which could have swung the outcome.

&8220;We had our chances and the matches were a lot closer than the final score shows,&8221; said coach Dyrdal.

Philippe Perrin picked up Albert Lea’s lone victory on the day putting together a strong showing at No. 1 singles 7-5, 6-3.

&8220;Philippe played very well against a solid opponent,&8221; said coach Dyrdal.

Greg Peterson dropped his match at No. 2 2-6, 0-6, Scott Strom lost 3-6, 1-6 and Mike Bosma fell 1-6, 0-6 to complete singles action.

Picking up wins in junior varsity action were: Scott Johnson, Matt Stoneking, Bryant Olchefske, Joe Polis, Ben Robinson, Drew Passingham, Evan Nolander, Elliott Light and Levi Peterson.

The Tigers are back in action Monday when they host second-rated Rochester Mayo in another Big Nine Conference battle.