Led by sophomore Connor Williams — again — the Sun Devils cooked the course with an 11-under 277, as Williams went 5-under 67, while Josele Ballester, Peer Wernicke and Preston Summerhays all shot 2-under 70. Williams is tied at 9-under 135 (68-67) for the lead with Michael La Sasso or Oregon, with the next individuals four shots back.
The counting four scores had 17 birdies and just six bogeys. On the par-5 No. 18, ASU’s ninth hole of the day as it started on the back, the Sun Devils had four birdies and a par. Michael Mjaaseth had five birdies and had a solid 1-under 71, but that score wasn’t even needed in the 5-count-4 format.
The team took advantage of the par-5 holes, shooting a tournament-best 15 under and is tied for the most birdies with 36.
ASU will turn around and tee early Sunday (6:52 a.m.) at the at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa (North Course).
Head Coach Matt Thurmond (Arizona State currently tied for first)
On the team’s performance
“It was a great round. We have put ourselves in an advantageous position. I am pleased with the way we have competed the past two days. To post a score like that, which will probably hold up as the lowest round of the day, provides a huge confidence boost for us going forward.”
On Connor Williams being tied for the lead
“This is what Connor has been capable of. He is an extremely talented golfer who continues to grow every day. That was an impressive round coming off a great start yesterday. He is playing smart and consistent golf. The key will be maintaining his focus and continue playing the same way that got him the lead.”
On throwing out a score that was under par
“When you don’t count a score of one-under par, that means you had a pretty good day. From top to bottom, the guys came out prepared and ready to attack the course. If you look at our scorecards, you do not see many bogeys, which was what I had hoped for. Playing clean golf at this course is rewarded.”
On mindset going forward
“While it is certainly a nice start, having the lead through two does nothing for you. You still must earn your spot for two more days of stroke play – then once you get to match play – it is an entirely different game. We will practice for about 30 to 60 minutes this afternoon, hit reset…
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