FORT COLLINS, Colo. - The University of Idaho women's golf team opened the 2009 season with a decisive four-stroke victory over host Colorado State and the rest of the field of 16 at the Ptarmigan Ram Fall Classic.
"I was really proud of how the team handled the pressure," coach Lisa Johnson said. "We started out the round with several birdies, which gave us a lot of confidence. We gave away a few shots on the back nine but we were able to get them back."
Idaho combined for a five-under 859 as a team. Colorado State was at 863 with Louisville and New Mexico tied for third at 867.
The effort truly was a team one for the Vandals, who were led by sophomores Kayla Mortellaro and Teo Poplawski with top-10 outings and a 14th by senior Amanda Jacobs. Two other sophomores - Annika Karlsson and Frida Nilsson, had closing round 75s.
Mortellaro closed with a two-under 70 for a six-under 210 and a tie for third. Poplawski closed with a 71 after a remarkable 65 during the second round to card a five-under 211 and fifth. Jacobs, who battled injury last season, was steady with rounds of 71-71-75 for a one-over 217 for her 14th-place effort.
"We putted extremely well this tournament - better than we ever have," Johnson said. "We were a lot more accurate with our wedge play."
That, Johnson said, was the Vandals' plan from the beginning and just what they needed to control the tournament.
"Our strategy was to attack the flag," Johnson said. "This course places a huge premium on performing well within 100 yards. We were able to attack the flag, make birdies and finish strong."
