Santa Barbara showed good balance to overcome the 1-under score by JJ Holen of West Ranch and won the non-league boys golf match at Montecitio Country Club on Thursday.
The Dons, who had three players shoot in the 70s, shot 387 to West Ranch’s 407.
Sean Searls had four birdies en route to a 2-over par 73 to lead the Dons (3-1). James Morton birdied two of the final three holes to finish at 76 and Mickey Kirby also shot a 76.
“The boys were excited to defend their home turf today after a tough loss to Chaminade in a match play event,” Santa Barbara coach James Bedard said. “Still, there is always room for improvement but this is a good win against a playoff caliber team.”
Holen is considered one of the top players in Southern California. The Long Beach State-bound star was the match medalist with a 70. West Ranch’s next best score was an 81.
“They will be ready for us next week when we travel to TPC Valencia to play them on Thursday, looking for some revenge,” said Bedard.
At Par 71 Montecito CC
Santa Barbara 387, West Ranch 407.
Medalist—JJ Holen, WR, 70
SB (3-1)—Sean Searls 73, James Morton 76, Mickey Kirby 76, Alec Constantinides 80, Ryan Crane 82
WR (1-1)—JJ Holen 70, Joey Downey 81, Isaac Kim 82, Brandon Dooley 87, CJ Espino 87
