March 9, 2009
With three golfers currently under par, the top-ranked Arizona State women's golf team jumped into first place going into the final round of the UCF Challenge, held at the par-72, 6,301-yard RedTail Golf Club in Sorrento, Fla. Led by Azahara Munoz and Jaclyn Sweeney, the Sun Devils have compiled an 8-under 568 (284-284) to move ahead of UCLA. The Sun Devils are currently one shot ahead of the No. 2 Bruins.
"Tomorrow is going to be a barn burner!" seventh year head coach Melissa Luellen said on their match-up with UCLA. "It's going to be fun to go head to head. The team that plays will be the team that wins."
Showing no repercussions from a wrist surgery in January, Munoz is back. After finishing round one at even par, the senior played a bit more aggressively shooting a 3-under 69. Munoz is currently tied for eighth after 6shooting a 3-under 141 (72-69) over the two rounds. Munoz carded five birdies throughout the day.
"Aza was a little frustrated actually," said Luellen on her senior star. "She left a lot of shots out there. She made some nice putts too. She's really excited to be back."
Sophomore transfer Sweeney also played strong in the second round. The 2008 All-American knocked in a birdie on the final hole to finish the day tied for eighth with Munoz. Sweeney has shot a 3-over 141 (71-70) over the two rounds.
"Jackie made a really nice putt on 18 for her to finish 2-under," said Luellen. "She's played really well."
Carlota Ciganda maintained her 1-under score going into the final round. The freshman shot an even 72 in the second round to finish at 1-under 143 (71-72). Ciganda will enter the final day tied for 17th.
Juliana Murcia is currently tied for 29th. Murcia finished the first two rounds at 2-over 146 (70-76). Jennifer Osborn moved up to 76th after shooting a 1-over 73 in the second round. She enters the final round at 11-over 155 (82-73).
"I'm really proud of Jen for her comeback," said Luellen.
One of most pleasant surprises of the day came from freshman Giulia Molinaro. With an eagle on a par-5, the Italian shot a 4-under 68 in the second round. At 1-over 145 (77-68), Molinaro is tied for 26th going into the final round.
The Sun Devils look to maintain their first place position at the UCF Challenge tomorrow. The team tees off tomorrow at 10:09 a.m. ET.
"We're looking forward to a fun day tomorrow," continued Luellen. "Hopefully we'll come home with smiles on our faces. As long as we compete well we'll be happy."