HINCKLEY, Ohio – Rocky River ran into a tough foe and a tough inward nine, as the Pirates fell to the Brunswick Blue Devils, 314-355, on Thursday.
The Pirates trailed by just two strokes at the turn; their hosts rudely tacked onto their lead by the dozen over the final nine holes. Playing on a course (Pine Hills Golf Club) designed by Harold “Happy” Paddack, Sr., and on a day seemingly designed by the Hinckley Chamber of Commerce, the River swing squad couldn’t muster a turnaround in falling to defeat for the first time in 2020.
Will Bennett, Aidan McDonald, and Hayden Weaver were the Pirates’ top scorers on the day. Each carded an 83 over the 6,698-yard, par-71 layout. Overall, Rocky River’s ball striking was exceptional, but the Pirates (2-1) struggled with their putting on slick putting surfaces.
Freshman Nick Tianello logged River’s fourth score. Making his varsity debut, Tianello announced his presence with authority. He birdied the 372-yard, par-four first and would go on to post an 86 by way of a 40 on the front nine and a 46 on the back. Hayden Weaver also birdied (par-4 14th), and Will Bennett carded two digits in red (the 5th and 7th holes, both par-5s).
The Swinging Corsairs are slated to resume their fall season on Monday, when they play in the Reece Alexander Classic, a tournament at Fowler’s Mill Golf Course in Chesterland, Ohio. The event will be hosted by Gilmour Academy.
CANNON FIRE …
JV BEDEVILS BRUNSWICK: The River JV opened its season with a 367-412 victory over Brunswick. Sophomore Carter Smith carded a team-best 86 in what marked his Pirate debut. The match was held at Big Met Golf Course.
LEADERS IN THE CLUBHOUSE: Rocky River’s early scoring leaders are Lucas Dietrich (80 average) and Will Bennett (81.7).
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