MUNCIE, Ind. -- Playing without its number one singles players, 69th-ranked Cornell dropped a 4-1 decision to Ball State on Sunday morning at the First Serve Center. The Big Red fell to 3-5 on the season, while the Cardinals improved to 5-3.

Ball State seized the early advantage by sweeping the doubles point. The Cardinals posted 6-1 wins at Nos. 1 and 3 to take a 1-0 lead, while the No. 2 match was left unfinished.

In singles play, Ball State secured the team victory with wins at Nos. 2, 5 and 6. Sarah Shahbaz edged Victoria Zhao in straight sets at No. 2, while Asia Fontana and Gabby Barrera added victories at the fifth and sixth spots.

Cornell, who was withoput top singles player Michelle Ryndin, posted its lone point when freshman Dylan Gelber delivered a 6-3, 6-3 victory at No. 3 singles. Matches at Nos. 1 and 4 were halted after the Cardinals clinched the match, with Sage Loudon and Andrea Martinez De Los Rios each entering third sets.

Cornell heads back on the road to face Buffalo on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 1:30 p.m., then return home for a match against Fairleigh Dickinson on Sunday, March 1 at 12 p.m. at Reis Tennis Center.