KINGS POINT, N.Y. - The Purchase College men's tennis team kicked off Skyline Conference play with a loss Saturday afternoon, falling to the United States Merchant Marine Academy, 8-1.

With the defeat, the Panthers dropped 1-3 overall and 0-1 in the league. Meanwhile, the Mariners earned their first win of the year and are now 1-2 and 1-0, respectively. 

Purchase fell behind early in the contest, dropping all three doubles matchups. The closest contest was at the No.1 spot as the duo of Julian Szuper and Ben Joory lost 8-3.

Once the action moved to singles competition, the Mariners continued to roll, taking the first five matchups to easily secure the victory.

Purchase's lone triumph came in the final battle of the day at No.1 singles, as Szuper bested his foe with relative ease - 6-0, 6-2. 

Up next for the Panthers is a return to their home courts, as they welcome Hunter College on April 5th at 3 p.m. for some non-conference action.