MARICOPA, Ariz. - University of Idaho senior Kristin Strankman fired a second-round 69 to move into a tie for fifth and pull the Vandals into a one-stroke lead with 18 holes to play at the Wyoming Cowgirl Classic.

Four Vandals are in the top 15 and all five are in the top 25 as Idaho had its best start of the season.

Strankman had an opening-round 75 to go with her career-best 69 for an even-par 144. Freshman Sophie Hausmann is tied for 10th with rounds of 70-77 (147), and senior Cassie McKinley (78-70) and sophomore Kendall Gray (73-75) are tied for 15th at 148. Freshman Michelle Kim is two strokes back at 150 (73-77) and tied for 25th.

Idaho is at 582 with one round to play. Santa Clara is one stroke back at 583.

"Kristin created lots of birdie opportunities today," coach Lisa Johnson said. "We played steady. It felt good to finally shoot some under-par rounds!

"Today was a break-through from all the adversity we faced this semester. We came into the tournament to show how hard we worked this spring. Our goal always is to win. It will be important to stay relaxed and confident Tuesday."