ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio – The West Liberty University men's golf team opened its fall slate with a strong showing at the Wheeling Fall Invitational, finishing in a tie for fifth place with Fairmont State at +14 after 36 holes at Belmont Hills Country Club.

California (Pa.) took home the team title at +5, edging Bluefield State (+10) and Indiana (Pa.) (+11). The Hilltoppers matched Fairmont State just one shot back of Wheeling (+13) in a crowded top half of the 16-team field.

On the individual leaderboard, Justin Doerr led the way for the Black and Gold with an even-par finish (E, 69-73=142), placing him in a tie for fourth overall and within four shots of medalist Chaz Ekoniak of California (Pa.) (-8). Doerr's second-round 2-under 69 was one of the best rounds of the day and helped vault him into the top five.

Adam Gill wasn't far behind, carding a superb 3-under-par 68 in the final round to climb into a tie for 13th at +3 (75-68=143). His 68 tied for the lowest round of the day across the field.

Brandon Lawhon posted consistent rounds of 74-74 to finish tied for 20th at +5, while Ethan Cook rounded out the Hilltoppers' top four with a tie for 25th at +6 (76-74=150).

With three players inside the top 25, West Liberty showcased the depth and scoring ability that will be key throughout the fall season.

The Hilltoppers will look to build on this momentum with a quick turnaround playing Monday and Tuesday in the Charleston Invitational at Berry Hills Country Club in Charleston, W.Va.