Although Matt Maskel was able to shoot a 69 in the final round of the Roadrunner Intercollegiate, it was not enough to move Illinois State mens golf team out of 15th place.
Matt was able to make a real good comeback, head coach Harland Kilborn said. I see that as a good sign.
Maskel and the team were able to improve their scores despite overcast skies and rain. The Birds shot their lowest score of the tournament with a 296.
We shook the rust off the first day, Kilborn said. I think today showed more of what we are capable of accomplishing.
Individually, Kyle Vasel tied for 37th with a three round total 226, Brian Anderson shot just three strokes behind him (229) and tied for 50th, while Maskel was able to move from a tie in 80th to a final finish of 52nd place tie. Denny Bull tied for 71st after firing a 253 and Dustin Edwards shot a 237 and tied for 76th.
The guys did better putting and chipping the ball close to the hole. They are definitely improving, Kilborn said.
These improvements fell short of changing the Birds 15th place standings. However, Kansas (856) was able to hold its position atop the tournament, while Valley foe Witchita State (877) fell to fourth. Northern Iowa (972), another conference team, placed behind the Birds with a 17th place finish.
Baylors Ryan Baca earned individual medalist honors after firing a three-round total of 209.
The Birds will have an opportunity for more outdoor practice on their spring trip to Fort Meyers, Fla., from March 6-14.
