Tennessee has its best score after 36 holes in program history.
SAN ANTONIO, Texas -- The No. 14 Lady Vols carded a second round score of 281 to maintain their lead at the NCAA San Antonio Regional at Briggs Ranch Golf Club (par 72, 6,350 yards). Tennessee holds a four-stroke lead and will play for an automatic championship berth in Saturday’s final round.
Despite a lightning delay lasting over two hours, Tennessee shot seven-under on the second day to bring its combined total to 557 (-19). The total is the best score after 36 holes in program history. The Lady Vols carded the program's best single 18-hole round score with a total of 276 in the first round.
Baylor and Washington moved up one spot to second and third place, respectively. UCLA and Texas A&M are tied for fourth place. Baylor's Hayley Davis continues to lead the individual field.
"They did really great today," Tennessee head coach Judi Pavon said. "Sometimes it's hard to follow up a great round with a another solid round because it seems like everything you did the day before isn't as good. I was a little nervous about today, but I was really pleased with how they started. Seeing how well they were doing, I really wasn't worried. On the back nine, they again came through with some good birdies."
Senior AJ Newell led Tennessee with a perfect card, which included four birdies. Her total of 68 (-4) brings her combined total to 140. She's currently in a tie for 10th place.
"She felt a little left out yesterday when she shot even and had her score thrown out," Pavon said. "I was really happy for her to finish strong after the rain delay. She had two birdies going and made one right after that delay."
Sophomore Emmie Pietila had yet another terrific round. She carded three-under 69 in the second round, which was a twin score of her first round. Her combined total of 138 places her in fourth place tie.
Both Lucia Polo and Anna Newell shot par with scores of 72. Polo's total of 141 ties her for 12th place. Newell is tied for 10th place alongside her sister, AJ. In the first round, Anna Newell led the squad with a score of 68 (-4).
Hannah Pietila finished the round three-over 75. She shot a 70 (-2) in the first round.
"We're in pretty good shape two rounds in," Pavon said. "We just look at that seventh place position and know we need to be ahead. We have nice cushion there. We just want to go out there and play good golf. Winning would be great. I hope we compete well and have a chance to do that."
