Three tied for Nebraska Amateur lead as Schaake lurks

Even though the leaderboard remains tight at the Nebraska Amateur, there’s a different name – or should we say names – leading after another 36 holes at Lincoln (Neb.) Country Club.

As first-round leader Jace Guthmiller, who recently completed his eligibility at the University of Nebraska, tumbled down the leaderboard after following his opening 65 with a 75, three other players got to 6 under for the tournament and share the lead. Those players include Luke Kluver, Matthew Schaefer and Tanner Owen.

Owen made up the most ground by following his opening 71 with a 67. It was the lowest round of the day.

“The biggest thing is I finally saw a couple putts go in, especially early, so that just gave me confidence to keep them going,” Owen said. “Yesterday I struggled off the tee a bit so getting in position off the tee today just helped me put it on the green.”

Schaefer has had rounds of 70-68 and Kluver has been equally consistent with rounds of 68-70.

“Today was a day where based off yesterday, I really wanted to try to get the putter rolling," Kluver said. "The greens were definitely at a higher speed today. I made a really nice putt on No. 2 to get myself going, for eagle there."

For the past three years, University of Iowa player Alex Schaake has walked away with this title. Schaake made three consecutive birdies on Tuesday in his round of 1-over 73, but at 1 over for the week, is only five shots off the pace. Two rounds remain in Lincoln.