Deerfield’s varsity girls hosted Longmeadow school Wednesday and defended their home turf with a 5-2 win. Playing smart, patient, and consistent tennis, the team is in the best shape it’s been in all year as the end of the season approaches. The top two singles matches, played by Ashley Manning and Esme Benjamin, were the most competitive of the day. Both Deerfield players challenged their opponent on every point, playing some of the most exciting tennis we’ve seen all year. Ashley and Esme ultimately yielded to their Longmeadow opponents but nonetheless made the most of the opportunity to improve their play through the experience. Deerfield delivered decisive wins at every other position. Tori Waterfall and Adeliza Grace extended their singles winning streaks with straight set victories. Gillian O’Connor and Mimi Delisser did the same at first doubles. Lisa Chen and Alya Abd-Aziz won their first match as varsity players with a near perfect two set win. At third doubles, Winston Rossetter and Catalina Llorente performed well together and won in two sets as well. The team improves to 6-3 and now prepares for their final dual match of the year with Choate Rosemary Hall, scheduled for this Saturday at noon.