MARYSVILLE — The Lady Eagles have had a difficult time getting started on the tennis court in 2011.

Not just literally, as more than a month has passed and Arlington girls tennis has played just five matches, but also figuratively.

“We’ve had some girls that have come out and been competitive, but it’s just hard to teach girls what they need to learn when we’re not on the court as much as we need to be,” said Arlington tennis coach Jill Hatfield.

The Eagles were able to get a match in April 12, but fell to Marysville-Pilchuck 5-2 in Wesco North action at Marysville Getchel.

Despite the loss, which knocks Arlington down to 0-5 on the season, Hatfield said she came away impressed a few of her players’ performances, starting with No. 2 doubles tandem Shanice Lundy and Macy Mackey, who defeated Katy Stevick and Savannah Pierce 6-2, 6-4.

“We have a couple of close matches with this group, but they have been very competitive so far this year and are showing a good amount of teamwork,” said Hatfield.

Also earning a win for Arlington is No. 2 singles player Kelsey Guirardo, who outlasted Courtney Coombs 3-6, 7-5, 7-5.

“Kelsey is very competitive,” said Hatfield about Guirardo, who sports a 5-1 record so far this season. “She doesn’t like to lose and she’s done a great job in that second spot.”

Playing a larger role for the Eagles this season is Toria Morcom, who went from No. 3 to No. 1 in singles with strong play to start the year.

“Toria played a lot over the summer and it shows in her game — it turned her into a No. 1,” said Hatfield.

Morcom lost to M-P’s Sarah Tuemmler 6-3, 6-2.

Arlington will play a home match against Lake Stevens at 3:30 p.m., April 20.