Bradford High boys golf coach Travis Faulkner knew his team’s match with Elk County Catholic Friday would be competitive, after the squads flip-flopped second and third place finishes at the Punxsutawney and Coudersport Invitationals this week.

As it turns out, it’s impossible to get any closer than the two teams were Friday, as the Owls edged the Crusaders by one stroke, 221-222.

“It was exciting,” Faulkner said. “It definitely came down to the end. We had some guys that really stepped up and played well.”

Bradford’s Mitch Faulkner earned medalist honors, but it was also due to the play of a couple of other Owls that they were able to come out on top.

Matt Moonan shot a 42, his best-ever score at Pine Acres, while No. 5 man Kevin Sambol fired a 50 in his first varsity match.

“Matt played a consistent round and Kevin, for his first time in a varsity match, was great,” coach Faulkner said. “Mitch was happy with his play. He had seven pars and two bogeys and just missed on some birdie putts. He was real close to tying his career low on the front nine at Pine Acres.”

Jeff Wehler shot a 40 and Mitchell Struble a 42 for the Crusaders, while Brayden Snyder shot a 45 and Evan Piganelli a 46 for Bradford.

“Both teams have had busy weeks,” Faulkner noted. “The guys had to watch out for some wet spots on the course today, but the greens were nice and soft, good for putting.”

Bradford has another big challenge on its hands Tuesday when they travel to Ridgway.

“This was are first time beating Elk County Catholic during my two years as coach, and we haven’t beaten Ridgway since I’ve been here,” Faulkner noted.

BRADFORD (221)

Mitch Faulkner 38, Matt Moonan 42, Brayden Snyder 45, Evan Piganelli 46, Kevin Sambol 50

ECC (222)

Jeff Wehler 40, Mitchell Struble 42, Drew Meyer 42, Jonah Meyer 49, Gabe Kraus 49