Published: May 23, 2007 10:55 pm      

Eagles slip at nationals

In a disappointing day of play, Oklahoma Christian University slipped from second to seventh place after the second round of the 56th Annual NAIA Men’s National Golf Championships in Plymouth, Ind. Yesterday.

OC posted a 307 team score to go with its opening round 287 for 594 overall at the midway point of the competition.

Junior Bruno Buccolo, who tied for the first day individual lead with a 68, had a six-over 78 for a two round total 146. He is in a four-way tie for 17th place.

“Frankly, we’ve been better,” Coach David Lynn said. “It’s pretty disappointing but we have to put this round behind us – it’s just one day of a four day tournament.”

Junior Rhein Gibson added a 75 to his first round 73 and is tied at 148 with nine other entries.

OC’s two freshmen, Sean Elliott and Blake St. John, contributed scores to the second round effort. Elliott had the team’s low score of 74 and St. John registered an 80. Elliott has a two-round score of 150 and St. John is at 158. Sophomore Fernando Gonzales carded an 83 to go with his first round 70 for a two-day total of 153.

“We shot poorly,” Lynn said. ”We couldn’t get any momentum generated. It’s quite unusual for all five team members to have off days on the same day but we’ll just have to put it behind us. This team has a lot of character and I think we’ll come out and get some things done.”

First day leader Oklahoma City University maintained its hold on the top spot with a second round two-over 290 for a leading score of 571. Northwood (Texas) had 288-295 for 583 and second place. Wayland Baptist holds down third place with rounds of 292-293 --- and a 585 total. Johnson & Wales (Fla.) is fourth with 589.+