MOUNT VERNON – Cornell's men's tennis team was tough at the top of the lineup, pulling out a 5-4 dual win over American Rivers Conference foe Simpson Saturday in the Small Sport Center Arena.
 
Sophomore Alexander Hadler-Strumlauf was among three undefeated Rams, rolling 6-1, 6-1 at No. 1 singles and scoring an 8-3 victory with partner Justin Mendez at No. 1 doubles.
 
Federico Polidori, the reigning Midwest Conference Performer of the Week, also earned a convincing 6-1, 6-1 decision at No. 2 singles. Polidori and Chris Penas-Hull posted an 8-4 win at No. 2 doubles, improving their season record to 5-1.  
 
The Rams received a key 6-3, 6-3 singles win from No. 4 player Penas-Hull to help clinch the meet.
 
Penas-Hull and Polidori both climbed to 4-2 in singles action this season.
 
Cornell's No. 3 doubles pair of Edwin Holyoake and Michael Coester dropped an 8-4 match.
 
The Rams (3-3) are back on their home courts Friday to face Millikin at 5 p.m.