Sept. 12, 2005
LINCOLN, Neb. -
In addition to battling 12 other schools, the Illinois State men's golfers also had to battle another unexpected opponent - a constant gust of wind averaging 30 miles per hour. After a day of play, the Redbirds are in sixth- place with a score of 609 (297, 312) at the Fairway Club Invitational hosted by Nebraska.
Assistant coach Pina Gentile believes that the winds had an effect on the `Birds score.
"The guys really battled today, and they never gave up," said Gentile. "The winds were tough. I've never seen a golf ball move like that in my life."
Senior Chris Eddy led the `Birds in round one by shooting a one-over-par 72, the seventh best score for the round. The `Birds finished round one with a team score of 297, putting them in fourth place through 18 holes.
In round two the winds continued to cause problems for the field. Senior Kris Wildenradt led the team in round two with a four-over-par 75, leaving him tied for 12th place with a two-round score of 150 (75,75).
Eddy dropped to 23rd overall, after shooting an 81 in the second round and 153 for the day. Senior Matt Maskel finished the day tied for 20th with a two-round total of 152. Maskel was followed by Junior Matt Miller's two-round total of 154, leaving Miller tied for 31st. Freshman Ben Murphy rounded out the `Birds lineup, shooting a two-round total of 159 putting him in 48th place.
Host school Nebraska finished day one in the lead, shooting a team total of 583 (291,292). The Huskers were paced by tournament leader Judd Cornell who shot a two-round total of 140 (71,69).
Gentile believes that the `Birds can still improve on their team score.
"I'd like to see us come out tomorrow fired up and make a move," said Gentile. "I think we can make some things happen if we can play to our potential."
The Redbirds resume play on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m., for the final 18 holes of the tournament.
