Flores wins in match-play at U.S. Amateur

Former Nevada Union standout and current UCLA national champion Erik Flores is making his mark at the the U.S. Amateur Open in Pinehurst, N.C., this week, topping Mark Anderson in match play on Wednesday.

Flores was up three strokes on Anderson by the fourth hole, in the second day of the tournament.

“I knew I played alright the first day ... I kind of had the tough draw in the afternoon and all,” Flores said over the phone.

“I had a early start the second day on probably the easier of the two courses. I knew if I posted anything under par I’d be fine.”

He ended up finishing the Round of 64 with a qualifying score of 138. He’ll resume match play against Charlie Holland today.

The open will be televised at 9 a.m. by the Golf Channel.

Flores is trying to keep on an even-keel as the tournament goes on.

“I’m optimistic about my next match,” he said. “I’m pretty confident in my game right now. It’s just a matter of execution. Getting out there and getting a solid routine (and) getting the pace out there.

“It’s like a whole new tournament every hole,” he continued. “It’s just like the NCAA basketball tournament. I’m taking it hole-by-hole, and match-by-match.”