OVERLAND PARK, Kansas - The Missouri State men's golf team is in fifth place, just five from the lead, after 36 holes at the UMKC/Bill Ross Intercollegiate in Overland Park, Kan. The Bears shot 294-296--590 on Monday (Oct. 12) at Milburn Country Club and are within striking distance of leader Wichita State, which tallied 287-298--585.

Gonzaga and Air Force are tied for second in the 12-team field with 587 and host UMKC is another shot back at 588. The Bears are fifth, followed by Oral Roberts (593), South Dakota State and SIU Edwardsville (596), Western Illinois (598), Drake (603), Oklahoma Christian (613) and Creighton (615).

Individually, Joey Johnson also is in the hunt for MSU. The senior from Ozark, Mo., fired 72-70--142, two-under par, and is in third place, four back from Grant Bennett of Wichita State, who's at 138.

Freshman Kory Franks is second for the Bears and tied for 17th overall after carding 73-75--148. Senior Brik Brauburger went 73-78--151 and is tied for 27th, while freshman Adam Fisher is another shot back and tied for 33rd with 78-74--152. Senior Mitch Mather shot 76-77--153 and is tied for 43rd. Sophomore John Fuchs, playing as an individual, notched 75-76--151 and is tied for 27th.

Tuesday's final round is slated for an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start.

36-Hole Results