Zach Berger saved his spot near the top of the leaderboard with grit, consistency and clutch putting when it mattered most.

The Westhampton Beach junior shot a 1-over 143 to tie for fifth at the state boys golf championship, held Sunday and Monday at Mill Creek Golf Club in Churchville. It was Berger’s second straight top-10 finish at states.

“On Sunday during the first round, my putter was hot,” Berger said. “I had four straight up-and-downs on the back nine that really kept me in it. Even if I didn’t hit a good chip, I was able to make the putt and save par.”

Berger followed an opening-round 69 with a 74 on Monday. His focus off the tee, where he said he avoided hazards all season last fall, helped him stay in control on a demanding course.

“As my game has progressed, I’ve built more confidence and belief in myself,” Berger said. “Since ninth grade, I’ve seen constant improvement.”

Coach Fred Musumeci praised Berger’s ability to compete even when his game isn’t perfect.

“Yesterday he didn’t have great irons on the back nine, but he made some fantastic up-and-downs,” Musumeci said. “He’s mentally tough. He competes. He grinds. That’s where he shines.”

Berger, who won the Suffolk individual title in October with a 6-under 140 at Pine Hills, is verbally committed to play at Loyola (Md.) after next season.

“No doubt he’s going to win this next year,” Musumeci said.

Berger credited teammate Reid Groth for support during the tournament.

“That’s my favorite part of high school golf,” Berger said. “Being out there with a teammate who’s in it with you — that means a lot.”

Friends Academy’s Akash Agarwal finished seventh (146), and Half Hollow Hills’ Harry Wolk tied for 13th (149).