ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -- Playing a golfer short didn't stop Northeastern State from putting together one of the steadiest rounds on the shortest holes Monday at the MWSU Women's Holiday Inn Express Invitational at St. Joseph Country Club.

The RiverHawks finished the opening round tied for 14th at 329, despite competing without a fifth player to provide a drop score. Northeastern State's four-player lineup held the third-lowest scoring average on par-3 holes in the field, a key factor that kept the team within striking distance of the top 10 in the 19-team event.

 Maria Ruiz led the way with a 5-over 77, good for a share of ninth place individually. Boh Greenwood added a 79, while Laia Llorens carded an 86 and Talya Samir followed with an 87.

Harding and Southwestern Oklahoma State shared the team lead at 308, followed by Arkansas–Fort Smith at 310. Lauren Evans of UAFS fired an even-par 72 to take the individual lead heading into Tuesday's final round.

The tournament continues on Tuesday with the final round of play.