March 31, 2009
Final Stats
Game Notes 
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - The Illinois State men's golf team finished in eighth place after posting a final-round score of 302 at the UALR/First Tee Collegiate Classic at Chenal Country Club Tuesday. Kyle Bragg led the Redbirds after he tallied a three-round-total of 223 (76-72-75) on the par-72 course.
Illinois State finished in eighth place out of an 18-team field after shooting a three-day total of 897 (302-293-302). Bragg was low for the `Birds after he fired a 223 and finished tied for 20th place, while Ben Murphy claimed a share of 34th place after he carded a 72-76-78--226. Jeff Kellen shot an 80-73-75--228 on the 7,221-yard course, ending the tournament tied for 43rd place.
"The course was wet and played long (Tuesday)," said head coach Ray Kralis. "We had the conditions we wanted, but we weren't able to make the move we were hoping for. As a team, we are a little disappointed but we will regroup and get ready for the Branson Creek Invitational next week."
Junior Joe Emerich shot a 74-78-77--229 and finished the tournament tied for 49th place. Will Cullen tallied a 3-over-par 75 in the final round and earned a share of 60th place (85-72-75--232).
Lamar University took home team honors after tallying a 299-293-287--879 in the three-round tournament, while Gideon Pienaar of Central Arkansas earned individual accolades after shooting a 4-under-par 212 (70-71-71). Illinois State finished ahead of Missouri Valley foes Northern Iowa (16th) and Missouri State (17th).
The Redbirds next stop will be at the Branson Creek Invitational at Branson Creek Golf Club April 7-8 in Branson, Mo.
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