DIAMONDHEAD – In the first MACJC event of the spring season this weekend at Diamondhead Country Club, Northwest shot a two-day total of 655 and finished fifth overall out of 10 teams.

On a cold and windy Day 2 on the Pine Course, Northwest improved by 21 strokes to finish just eight shots out of fourth place behind East Central.

"Our kids battled back nicely," fifth-year volunteer assistant Guy Purdy said. "Our putting and chipping was a lot better and we made some good progress. We have a month to practice and get things right before our next match."

Three Rangers finished in the Top 15 individually, led by freshman Jack Byrd who shot 76-79 and placed 8th overall. Sophomore Sam Cooper fired an 83-77 to close in a tie for 10th and freshman Martin Powell went 86-78 to finish in a tie for 15th. Levi Garner (22nd), Chris Samsel (38th) and Chad Cupples (40th) rounded out the finishers for Northwest.

Tournament host Gulf Coast picked up the team win with a two-day 621, edging out Copiah-Lincoln by three strokes (624). East Mississippi finished third with a two-day 635.

Northwest will have a month to prepare for its next match and will be back in action March 2-3 at Eagle Ridge Golf Club in Raymond.