Drake took Illinois State to the breaking point, but the Redbirds were able to take a 4-2 opening round win in the State Farm MVC Championships.

Drake led off with a 2-1 doubles victory to take a one-point overall advantage. Veronika Leszayova took a 6-2, 6-1 win over Katri Miller to put Drake ahead 2-0, but the match escaped the Bulldogs after the top flight.

At No. 2, Julia Zubkova won by default after Drake’s Irina Kalashnikova committed three code violations for an ejection.

Carolyn Parent and Tanja Hrovatic earned wins at the fourth and fifth flights while Katie O’Riley won by default at No. 6.

Illinois State moves on to face the winner of the Wichita State, Evansville matchup, Saturday at 2 p.m.