March 27, 2000

Stevinson, Calif. - The University of Missouri men's golf team, playing without its top player in senior David Suggs, is in 11th place through two rounds of the Stevinson Ranch Invitational, which is being held today and tomorrow at the Stevinson Ranch, in Stevinson, Calif.

Missouri shot a two-round team total of 617 on the first day of play, opening with a 306 and following with a 311 in the afternoon. That left the Tigers in 11th, but just 13 strokes out of fifth place.

The Tigers were forced into action without the services of number-one player David Suggs, who was unable to go due to a pair of separated ribs, suffered prior to the tournament. Suggs' absence left MU to play with just four players, including three sophomores and a freshman. It was not known whether or not Suggs could play in Tuesday's final round.

Sophomore Neal Stafford did his best to make up for Suggs' absence, as Stafford is tied for 18th place individually, with a two-round total of 150. Stafford opened with a six-over 78 in the morning round, but recovered to shoot and even-par 72 in the afternoon. He is eight shots back of leader Conrad Roberts of Kansas, who leads through two rounds.

Next up for the Tigers is fellow sophomore Mark McBride, who stands tied for 34th place, with a 153 total. McBride opened with a 75, and followed with a 78 in the afternoon.

Freshman Shawn Fleming was just one stroke back of McBride, with a 154 total, which left him tied for 41st place. Fleming shot rounds of 76 and 78.

Sophomore Cory Ewert shot rounds of 77 and 83 for a total of 160. That left him tied for 59th place.