In the final meet before the Big Nine Conference boys’ golf meet, Albert Lea defeated United South Central 311-317 Monday at Rice Lake Golf and Country Club.

Lucas Peterson earned the top score of the day. He finished the course in 74 strokes, three shy of par.

Brent Nafzger earned a score of 78, and Nate Stadheim shot an 80.

A pleasant surprise for Albert Lea head coach Casey McIntyre was the play of eighth-grader Sam Chalmers. Chalmers finished the course in 79 strokes.

“It was a break-out day for Sam,” he said. “We’ve seen a lot of young guys progress.

“Alex Syverson shot in the ’70s twice this season, and with Sam Chalmers shooting in the ’70s, it makes the future look bright.”

The Tigers finished the regular season with a conference record of 6-3.

McIntyre said he has seen recent improvement with his team.

“Our last four tournaments have been in the low 300 range,” he said. “That’s pretty good for us.”

Next, Albert Lea will compete at the Big Nine Conference Meet at Rochester Eastwood Golf Course at 10 a.m. Wednesday.

The duo of Nate and Ryan Pederson led United South Central with scores of 76 and 77.