FULLERTON, Calif. --- Biola's rough start to the season continued with a 6-3 loss to Hope International on Tuesday morning.
 
Both teams entered the contest without a win in Golden State Athletic Conference play, and the Eagles hoped to pick up their first as they have defeated Hope International in five of the teams' last eight contests.
 
Kathryn Ashford proved why she plays No. 1 singles for the Eagles, picking up a quick two-set sweep (6-0, 6-0) of the Royals' No. 1, Sabrina Miller.
 
"Kat just dominated her opponent," said Head Coach Dee Henry.
 
Kelsey Post showcased her strong serve at No. 4 singles to pick up Biola's only other individual match win. She earned a gritty 6-4 win in set one and then went one to win easily in set two, 6-1.
 
Susan Carmichael nearly pulled another individual win out of the hat for the Eagles, fighting to a tight three-set loss.
 
"Susan's girl just got hot and hit a lot of winners," said Henry.
 
Another near-win came at the No. 3 doubles slot. Post and Lauren Vogel found themselves staring at defeat as they were down 7-3 in their matchup. However, they rattled off some great volleys and forced their way to the eventual 8-5 loss.
 
Carmichael and Ashford combined to win at No. 2 doubles to notch Biola's third point of the match. The pair outscored its opponents 8-5 n route to the duo's second win of the season.
 
"Susan and Kat took turns with their aggressive net play," said Henry.
 
The loss drops Biola to 0-7 (0-4 GSAC) and improves the Royals to 2-5 (1-4 GSAC). The Eagles get back into action Saturday with a match in Irvine against No. 14 Concordia.