April 13, 2013

ATLANTA, Ga. — The South Carolina men’s golf team closed out the regular season in strong fashion on Saturday, defeating eighth-ranked Georgia Tech in a dual match, 3.5-2.5, at East Lake Golf Club.

The teams had a perfect day to play on Masters Saturday at East Lake, which is the home course of legendary golfer Bobby Jones and also serves as the Yellow Jackets’ home course. The Gamecocks held a 3-2 advantage with sophomore Sean Kelly left on the course in his match with Georgia Tech junior Bo Andrews, as the pair headed to the 18th tee box all square. Both golfers made par to halve the hole, giving Carolina the win.

“It was an exciting match, and I’m really proud of our team for pulling out the victory,” South Carolina head coach Bill McDonald said. “Georgia Tech has a great team, and we were fortunate to beat them. East Lake Golf Club was in great shape, and the experience for our guys was invaluable heading into the postseason.”

Sophomore Caleb Sturgeon’s match with Georgia Tech sophomore Anders Albertson went to the 17th hole with Sturgeon leading 1 up. Sturgeon won the hole to win the match 2 and 1 and secure a point for the Gamecocks.

Freshman Matt NeSmith claimed a 2 and 1 victory over Georgia Tech freshman Shun Yat Hak. Freshman Will Starke cruised to a 5 and 4 victory in his match with Georgia Tech’s Michael Hines. Senior Dykes Harbin fell in his match with Ollie Schniederjans, 4 and 3, and junior Caulder Moore dropped his match with Tech’s Seth Reeves, 7 and 6.

The Gamecocks will return to action on April 19-21 in the 2013 SEC Championship. The 54-hole event will be held at Sea Island Golf Club in St. Simons, Ga.

South Carolina vs. Georgia Tech ResultDykes Harbin vs. Ollie Schniederjans L, 4 and 3Caleb Sturgeon vs. Anders Albertson    W, 2 and 1Matt NeSmith vs. Shun Yat Hak        W, 2 and 1Will Starke vs. Michael Hines     W, 5 and 4Sean Kelly vs. Bo Andrews      HalfCaulder Moore vs. Seth Reeves       L, 7 and 6