Big rounds from senior Jill Rachford, sophomore Albiona Zhubi and freshman Katie Laehn powered the Redbirds to a fifth place finish at the Lady Razorback.
Rachford dominated the field with a final round of 73, which was also a tie for the low round of the day with Minnesotas Karyn Strodahl. Rachford ended the Invite with a three round total of 232 and jumped 15 spots to finish tied for fifth place.
Zhubi moved up four spots to finish tied for 12th at the Invite after firing a 78 for the final round. Zhubi finished with a three day total of 236 just one stroke away from finishing in the top 10. Coach Kralis was impressed with the show that Rachford and Zhubi put on during the Invite.
This was a great showing by Abliona and Jill, said Kralis. They really came through with big rounds when we needed them.
Laehn was not to be overshadowed as she finished tied for 20th place with a 78 in the final round and a three round total of 240.
We are getting closer and closer to that total team effort that we are looking for to be competitive with the top schools in the Midwest, said Kralis.
The Redbirds finished the final round with 309 tied for the low round of the day with Minnesota. Minnesota took home the top honors with a team score of 927. Texas El Paso followed closely with 932 and Illinois with 941. Oral Roberts checked in with 947 only four strokes ahead of the Redbirds with 951.
This was certainly a step in the right direction and a tremendous buliding block as we get ready for Eastern Kentucky next week, said Kralis. This tournament gives a strong indication of what this team is capable of.
The Redbirds wrap-up their fall season with the Eastern Kentucky Invite October 11-13.
