The Emery Lady Spartans opened the golf season with a fifth place finish in Region 15 play Wednesday afternoon at the Moab Golf Club, the home site of the Grand Red Devils.

Led by senior Lainee Jensen’s sixth place finish, the Lady Spartans ended with a stroke count of 246. Richfield easily clinched first place with a 177, while Manti ended in second with 234. Grand and South Sevier tied for third with 244. San Juan and North Sanpete completed the field of seven in the final two spots.

“The region looks to be bunched from two to five this year,” said head coach Tom Hansen. “However, with the freshmen we have getting better, I am optimistic that by the end of the year we will be able to finish high.”

Jensen’s 48 was the team’s top score. This year’s competition is based squarely on stroke play. The first meet of the year was limited to nine holes, taking the top four team scores for the final total.

The Spartans will next participate in region play on Wednesday, March 14. The second meet of the season will take the team to Richfield’s home course at Cove View, which will also serve as the site for the State Championship meet in May.