DAHLONEGA, Ga. – Thanks to a sizzling second round of 274 (68.5 average), the Lee men’s golf team holds a five-stroke lead over Carson-Newman College (563) heading into the final 18 holes on Tuesday.
The Flames played 36 holes in Monday’s opening round of the University of North Georgia Fall Invitational and began with a 284 score, giving the team its 558 (-18) for the day.
“We had a special second round,” said coach John Maupin.
“I think the guys had been waiting on that one since they got back to school. It was a very long day, and I'm proud of the mental toughness they showed to close out a great round. It's fun to see what they can do when they are all on the same page.”
Senior Peyton Sliger continued to lead the way for the Flames. He added to his under-par scoring by posting rounds of 67-69 – 136 on the par 72, 6967-yards Achasta Golf Club course.
Sliger is tied for the tournament’s top spot with Carson-Newman’s Andrew Hall who posted rounds of 70-66 – 136. Taylor Davis is tied for third place after his sub-par rounds of 70-68 – 138.
Sophomore Shea Sylvester matched Hall’s best round of the day when he turned in a blistering 6-under par 66 after the second round. Sylvester opened with a 75 and his 141 total is good enough for a tie for ninth.
Adam Wright had a 72-75 – 147 and is tied for the 38th spot in the field of 91 individuals and 17 teams. However, his teammate Matt Strube came back to give his team a lift in round two. Strube slipped to a 79 on the first 18 but came back with a 1-under par 71 and a 150 tally.
The University of West Georgia holds down the third spot with a total of 564. Georgia Southwestern (569) is fourth and Columbus State (569) rounds out the top five.
“We know we still have work ahead tomorrow,” stressed Maupin. “We are looking forward to going out tomorrow and getting better.”