NAUGATUCK — Just call it the home-course advantage. Naugatuck used it to defeat Woodland at Hop Brook Golf Course on Tuesday afternoon.
The Greyhounds defeated the Hawks by three strokes, 192-195, in the first league match for both teams. Naugy coach Craig Blanchard credited the victory, in part, to his team’s home course.
“The home-field advantage helped today,” Blanchard said. “Hop Brook is a little tighter than kids are used to playing.”
Nick Tribanas, Naugatuck’s No. 1 golfer, and Brendon Waldron both shot scores of 45 for the Greyhounds, who were also scheduled to face Kennedy at Hop Brook on Wednesday. Tribanas started his match off on a positive note by reaching the green on the par-5 first hole in two shots and settling for a birdie.
Waldron gave the Greyhounds a boost in the No. 3 position.
“Brendon has been playing very consistent in practice and that was a good score today,” Blanchard said.
Matt Schumacher scored a 52 in the No. 2 slot for Naugatuck, while No. 4 Tyler Souanthanam had a 50 and Tom Karas shot a 53 in the fifth spot.
Woodland freshman Mike Erickson, a young Hawk who is very familiar with Hop Brook, carded a 41 and earned the medalist honor of the day.
“He has a great touch around the green and he always keeps the ball in play,” first-year Woodland head coach Bill Carangelo said of Erickson’s consistency.
Andy O’Dell and Pat O’Dell both shot 52s for the Hawks, while Will Flormann posted a 50 and Matt Greggis had a 56.
The Hawks defeated East Hampton, 195-202, on Monday in the opening match of their season. Woodland plays their next two matches in Waterbury.
On Thursday, the Hawks will play against Sacred Heart at East Mountain and follow with a match at Western Hills against Wilby on Tuesday.
