Another day, a new hero for Albert Lea

Published 9:26 am Tuesday, April 21, 2009

When the Albert Lea boys’ golf team has needed a low number posted, generally there has been someone there to do it.

Tyler Brackey was the latest to rise to the occasion Monday in a triangular meet with Austin and Northfield.

Brackey shot a 76 to lead the Tigers and help propel them over the Packers 321-325 in a conference victory. Northfield finished third with a 340.

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“Tyler’s a solid player and really has wanted to contribute more,” said Albert Lea head coach Riley Worth. “He certainly did that (Monday).”

Brackey’s 76 eased the pressure Austin’s Drew Osier put on the Tigers with his 1-under 70.

Albert Lea couldn’t score that low, but needed a number that was close enough so the depth of the team could notch the win.

Sam Matheson finished with an 80 while Grant Stadheim provided an 82 and Mike Falk an 83.

All three golfers shot better than the next best finisher for Austin.

The Packers were 2-0 in conference play, having just defeated Century. The Tigers had lost to Century and needed a win to keep pace.

Brackey’s back nine was the difference. After posting a 40 on the front, he came back to finish 1-under on the back. He birdied 17 to finish with a 76.

Mike Falk played a difficult round as he battled back from an 8-over start on the back nine to finish the final five holes at even par. He shot 83 on the day, carding a 39 on the front and 44 on the back.

The Tigers will play Tuesday at the Saint Peter Invite and Thursday in a triangular with Faribault and John Marshall at Green Lea Golf Course.