SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – Led by a near season-best score from sophomore Finn Koelle, the Washington men’s golf team held serve during Tuesday’s second round of the Western Intercollegiate, posting a six-over 356 for the second day running to maintain its positioning in ninth entering the final round.
After starting two-over through three holes, Koelle responded in kind, finishing six-under over the last 13 holes. The German international was bogey-free on the back nine, highlighted by an eagle on 13, to card a four-under 66, his second-best round of the season.
Building off of Monday’s 68, Koelle sits tied for third overall at six-under, three shots off the lead.
“Today was an awesome round from Finn,” head coach Alan Murray said. “He had a bumpy start over the first three but was exceptional the rest of the way and shot a superb 66.”
Freshman Jake Foley also carded an eagle on Tuesday, adding a birdie en route to an even-par 70. Second on the leaderboard for the Dawgs, Foley will enter Wednesday’s round tied for 29th at two-over.
“Jake continued his really solid play with an even par 70,” Murray said. “He plays really steady golf and has made tremendous progress as a freshman.”
Fellow freshman Brock Maulding posted five birdies on Tuesday but had his round marred by a tough finish on 18.
“Brock had a bit of a heartbreaking finish with a triple bogey on 18,” Murray said. “He played excellent golf on the back nine but suffered cruel misfortune on the last when his tee shot found the back bunker. His game is trending though and it would surprise me if he shoots under par tomorrow.”
Jack Murphy and Abel Derksen rounded out UW’s counters on Tuesday, carding rounds of four-over and five-over, respectively.
“Jack had a bit of a yoyo day and struggled to maintain any positive momentum he created,” Murray said. “He made seven bogeys in his 74 today which is tough to outrun. I know he will be determined to put that right tomorrow. Abel improved upon yesterday’s round with his 75 and hopefully he can do the same tomorrow.”
Drew Warford struggled through a sluggish day but rebounded with two birdies over the final three holes,…
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