Steve Pleis backs up at Hooters Tour event

David Gossett during his time on the PGA Tour. Courtesy of McClatchy-Tribune News Service.

Parrish's Steve Pleis and former David Leadbetter Golf Academy standout David Gossett were the lone players with ties to Manatee County to make the cut at the NGA Hooters Tour stop in Fayetteville, Ga.

Both players carded strong opening rounds at the Whitewater Creek Open presented by Michelob Ultra.

Pleis shot 65, while Gossett posted 63.

However, both players have struggled to duplicate those superb rounds.

Pleis shot a 1-over par 73 on Saturday and is tied for 37th at 6-under for the 72-hole tournament.

Gossett also carded a 73 in the third round. He's tied for 22nd. Gossett, who won the 1999 U.S. Amateur, began the day tied for fifth while Pleis started tied for 17th.

Gossett is 10 shots behind leader Garrett Osborn. Pleis is 13 strokes back.

Former Oklahoma State and Bradenton Academy standout Casey Wittenberg did not make the cut.

Neither did Englishman Jake Shepherd, who is listed from Longboat Key while in America.

Wittenberg soared to a 75 in the second round for a 146 total. Meanwhile, Shepherd also played worse in Friday's round. He posted a 77 for a 150 total.

Players at 141 or better advanced to the weekend.