Murphy leader of 'B' teams

The UCLA women's team and the Stanford men placed first in team standings.

"This meet was very low key," UA head coach Dave Murray said. "Our main purpose was to give our sixth and seventh runners some more experience and give some of our redshirts an opportunity to run."

Senior Brooke Murphy led the women's team with an impressive eighth place finish.

"I was really happy with Brooke's performance. She was our top finisher," Murray said.

The men's team was led by redshirt freshman Mike Cramer, who placed 20th, and Brett Pedersen, who placed 23rd.

"Mike and Brett ran solid races and showed they were capable of competing at this level," Murray said.

Asked about the implications of this meet on the Pacific 10 Conference Championships roster, Murray said, "The emphasis (for) this race was on individual performance. We were looking to see what people might be able step it up a competitive notch and some runners did just that."

Still a pressing issue is the injured ankle of senior Jeff McLarty. With the Pac-10 meet less than two weeks away, the Wildcats may have to run without one him.

"If McLarty's ankle is not better soon, these other guys are going to have to step up," Murray said.

The team has a week off and will prepare for the Pac-10 Championships in Eugene, Ore., Oct. 31.

Brian Wahlund can be reached via e-mail at Brian.Wahlund@wildcat.arizona.edu.