Erie, Pa. - The West Liberty University men's golf team got off to a steady start at the Atlantic/East Regional Preview at the Whispering Woods Golf Club , posting a team score of 299 (+11) to finish Day One in sixth place out of 23 teams.

Leading the charge for the Hilltoppers were Justin Doerr and Brogan Bennett, who each fired impressive rounds of even-par 72. The pair is currently tied for third place individually, just two shots off the lead. Their consistent ball-striking and ability to capitalize on scoring chances kept West Liberty firmly in the mix on a tightly bunched leaderboard.

Noah Seivertson contributed a 77 (+5), putting him in a tie for 46th, while Jayson Beckner followed closely with a 78 (+6) to sit tied for 55th. Ethan Cook rounded out the scoring with an 83 (+11), tied for 103rd.

West Liberty is just six shots back of the leaders — Davis & Elkins and Gannon (A), who are tied at 293 (+5). With only eight strokes separating the top nine teams, the Hilltoppers remain well within striking distance heading into the final round, which tees off Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.