Ball State is in the toughest stretch of its schedule, and it's only going to get tougher today at Illinois State.
"Illinois State, they are good," Coach Bill Richards said. "Aside from the Big Ten teams and Vanderbilt, they are probably the best team we've faced this year."
The Redbirds are not ranked, but will be a test for the 8-6 Cardinals, losers of four straight.
"It's going to be a tough match," Richards said. "Based on results of the year, they are probably the favorite, but they were probably the favorite last year when we beat them. We are not worried about that."
Ball State edged out Illinois State 4-3 last year in Muncie. Saturday's match will be Ball State's fifth straight-away match, as Ball State has not played in Muncie since February 20. The tough stretch in March should help the Cardinals in April when Mid-American Conference play beings.
"It will make us better in the conference season if we have the right mindset," Richards said.
Ball State is gradually getting healthier, with Junior Andres Monroy returning to the line-up after missing most of the season with a hip injury.
Sophomores Dalton Albertin and Alexandre Brym and juniors Cliff Morrison and Zane Smith have the top four singles spots. Monroy is competing with junior Derek Carpenter, sophomore Austin Sansone and senior Shaun Bussert for the last two spots.
Morrison had knee problems in the fall, and the wear and tear of the season may be aggravating the injury over the spring break road trip.
"The Middle Tennessee match was a little disappointing," Richards said. "Cliff is starting to struggle with his leg."
After the match with Illinois State, Ball State will travel to the Boise State Spring Tournament next week before finally playing a home match April 2.
"It's a tough stretch but it's how you get better," Richards said.
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