MARION, ILL.— The progress continues for the Central College men's golf team.
           
Monday at the 54-hole John A. Logan Invitational the Dutch fired 297-295--592 at the par-71 Kokopeli Golf Club. Playing the same course in much harsher conditions in a tourney March 9, Central shot 318-315—633 for sixth place in a 10-team field.
           
Team results were not yet available Monday but coach Mel Blasi said the Dutch were no worse than third in a similar-sized field. Indian Hills, a nationally ranked junior college, is the 36-hole leader.
           
"We played better," Blasi said. "The guys were more confident coming in."
           
Harold Dobernecker (sophomore, Nevada) again set the pace with 73-70—143.
           
"Harold has been our best player," Blasi said. "He was really steady all day and got it going a little bit on his second 18."
           
Lucas Wendel (junior, Le Claire, Pleasant Valley HS) followed with 72-76—148.
           
"Lucas was solid for us," Blasi said. "He had a great first 18 holes. He putted the ball real well. Other than for a few holes on the second 18 he was around par all day long."
             
Matt Briggs (sophomore, Burlington, Notre Dame HS) shot 75-74—149, Drew Rogers (freshman, Sullivan, Ill.) had 77-77-154 and Kyle Gabos (junior, Plymouth, Minn., Maple Grove HS) shot 79-75—154. Playing as an individual, Zach Doster (sophomore, Mount Ayr)  had 81-88—169.
           
"Matt Briggs is such a good player," Blasi said. "From tee to green he's as good as anyone out there.
           
"And Kyle (Gabos) contributing from the No. 5 spot really helped, too. He gave us a big lift."
           
The tourney concludes with 18 holes Tuesday although heavy rains are forecasted. But Blasi likes what he's seeing from his team regardless.
           
"This really a fun group to watch getting better," he said.