UNIONTOWN, Ohio -- The middle holes did a number on the Sons of Blackbeard, but the Rocky River Pirates rallied to take 12th-place in the 21-team Bulldog Invitational Monday.

The Pirates started their rounds in shotgun fashion on holes 8-10. Several River players struggled before and after the turn.

"We've got to find a way to avoid big deficits early," said head coach David Hendrickson.

One Double-R player got things going in a hurry and rode his fine start to a 9-over 81 at the 6,767-yard Prestwick Country Club. Sophomore Lucas Dietrich birdie nos. 9 and 11 en route to firing a 42-39--81 to finish with the Pirates' top score.

As a team, Rocky River posted a 348. The four Pirate scorers were Dietrich, senior Sam Vannucci (88), junior Owen Toole (89), and sophomore Nick Tianello (90).

"Most of the guys turned things around after a few holes, which I was happy with," said Hendrickson.

Hoban won the event which was hosted by Green High School. The Knights carded a team score of 289. Hudson's Coop Pamer earned medalist honors with a 3-under 69.

The Pirates are slated to return to the links Thursday when they host a Great Lakes Conference match against the Bay Rockets.


by Skip Snow

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