Munster, CP to meet in final

Updated: October 5, 2011 9:34PM

MUNSTER — Merrillville’s Leonard Mathews hasn’t had to play from behind very often this season. But Mathews found himself down 4-1 in the first set before rebounding with a 7-5, 6-1 win over Munster’s Jack Heiniger at No. 1 singles in the Munster Regional semifinals.

“It wasn’t a fun thing,” said Mathews. “It certainly wasn’t part of my strategy. Jack was just playing really good.”

Mathews (24-1) was down 5-2 in the first set before winning 11 of the next 12 games against Heiniger, whom he had beaten just two weeks ago. With all of the other matches over quickly, a large crowd gathered to take in the drama.

“(Mathews) had to weather that storm,” said Merrillville coach James Simon. “Heiniger has incredible defense and he brings some really good weapons.”

While Matthews won the battle at the top singles spot, it was state No. 9-ranked Munster who won the war. The Mustangs (15-1) got a sweep from Colin Richter at No. 2 singles and easy wins at No. 3 singles and both doubles matches.

“The win is good,” said Munster coach Steve Lopez. “Jack’s loss was tough and what we have to have him do now is stay focused on the team goal. He’s been nipping at the bud at some of these top players. He just has to get over that hill.”

Munster advanced to the regional final on Wednesday to face Crown (16-3). The Bulldogs were easy winners over Morton. Both Daniel Smith and Brendan Ray swept their matches at No. 1 and No. 3 singles, respectively.

Mathews will now advance in the individual side of the state tournament along with Lake Station’s Joe Dickerson, who took a 6-2, 6-2 win over River Forest’s Brian Breese. Hobart’s doubles team of Christopher Moore and Jacob Erlich also advanced with a straight set victory over Calumet’s Andrew Magier and David Stewart.

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