In the Lead in Alabama

Vanderbilt takes 2-stroke lead over Georgia after second round of Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate

VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. — Continuing their solid play on the course Monday, the Vanderbilt Commodores shot 8 under at the Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate and took a 2-stroke lead over Georgia going into the final round.

Vandy was 8-under on the day, matching Auburn’s 272 for the best score on Day 2 at the Old Overton Club in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. The Dores started the day five shots behind Georgia before storming ahead.

Vanderbilt is 18-under for the tournament.

“Tuesday is our next chance to compete and we need to choose to see opportunity,” Vanderbilt head coach Scott Limbaugh said. “It will take all five guys choosing confidence, having fun and staying locked-in on the right things at the right times.”

Matthew Riedel, a sophomore Houston, Texas, shot a 4-under 66 to lead Vanderbilt. He’s now tied for 18th after rebounding from a 2-over in the opening round.

Reid Davenport (tied for ninth) moved into the top 10 with a 5-under and another stellar day from William Moll (2-under 68, tied for fourth) has the Commodores in position to win a a second championship trophy in a row.

Vanderbilt won the Vanderbilt Legends Collegiate last month.

“I thought the conditions were tougher today with more wind a tougher hole locations. We didn’t get off to a great start, but the guys stayed in the fight which was awesome to see,” Limbaugh said. “We got some guys starting to understand momentum better which helps you understand the flow of a round.

“Matthew played a great round today which was huge going out first for us. Reid didn’t make a bogey and did a great job making some big putts coming down the stretch. William got off to a tough start, but showed a lot of character in how he responded. Michael (Shears) is a resilient kid and really battled today and I continue to be impressed with the steps he’s taking.”

Shears carded an even-par round for the second straight day and is tied for 29th. Jansen Preston fell into a tie for 48th after a 6-over 76.

Tuesday’s final 18 for Vanderbilt is scheduled to begin at 9:40 a.m.

Live scoring for Monday’s second round can be found HERE while updates will also be posted on Vanderbilt golf’s Twitter and Instagram pages.