SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Three players posted seven-over par rounds of 43 as the St. Francis golf team opened with a 218-226 victory over Pleasant Grove in the opening Delta League match of the season.

“It is one of the best efforts we have had as a whole group with only three shots separating the team,” said Head Coach Cindy Mah-Lyford. “It is extremely exciting to see the depth in our roster this year and there even was a playoff for the last spot in the lineup.”

Junior Kate Swanson was one of the three Troubadours to post a 43 in the opening match.

“I feel pretty good but there is room for improvement,” said Swanson. “Overall, the team did really well and our scores are close and really consistent. It is going to make for a great year.”

Juniors Makia Fang and Kristi Lee also tied for team-best honors with respective rounds of 43. Junior Leslie Young had a 44 in her first career dual match, while senior Victoria Ramirez posted a 45. Freshman Chase Saca recorded a 46 in her first career match, rebounding from a tough opening hole to show why she qualified for the top position for the match.

“It is a huge relief because Pleasant Grove has historically been our toughest team to play against,” said Mah-Lyford.

St. Francis went undefeated last season in the Delta River League, winning all five dual matches and each of the three center competitions.

 “The nerves are out of the system for a lot of us,” said Swanson. “Next time will be even better.”

The Troubies return to the course on Sept. 15 with a Center match at Bing Maloney starting at 12:30 p.m.

ST. FRACNCIS 218, PLEASANT GROVE 226

9 holes at WildHawk Golf Club, Par 36

Low Scorers: Brittany O’Bryant, PG, 40; Kate Swanson, SF, 43; Makia Fang, SF, 43; Kristi Lee, SF, 43; Leslie Young, SF, 44; Emily Avila, PG, 44; Victoria Ramirez, SF, 45; Chase Saca, SF, 46.