Thailand's Sutijet Primed For Maiden Asian Tour Win

MANILA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Nov, 2016 ) : Thailand's Sutijet Kooratanapisan fired a three-under-par 69 to seize the lead at the Manila Masters golf tournament Saturday, with teenage sensation Phachara Khongwatmai in hot pursuit.

After a consistent round in windy conditions highlighted by an eagle on the fourth hole, the 29-year-old Sutijet vowed to be positive as he chased his maiden Asian Tour title at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club on Sunday.

"My plan tomorrow is to attack the fairways and greens. I'll be aggressive. I don't want to think too much as that will give me added pressure," said Sutijet, who at 16 under sits two shots clear of compatriot Phachara.

Phachara also shot a 69 and, with the confidence of youth, gave himself a strong chance of what would be a stunning win. "I'm only two shots back and I still can catch up," said Phachara, who has lit up the Asian Tour with three top-five finishes in his past four tournaments.

After an impressive 65 the day before that had him atop the leaderboard after two rounds, India's Jyoti Randhawa battled all day to card a two-over 74 and fall back to an equal share of third place.

Alongside him at 13 under are countryman S.S.P. Chawrasia, who mixed his card with three bogeys and four birdies for a 71, South Africa's Jbe Kruger and Australian Terry Pilkadaris. -- Leading scores: 200 - Sutijet Kooratanapisan (THA) 65-66-69 202 - Phachara Khongwatmai (THA) 67-66-69 203 - Terry Pilkadaris (AUS) 66-70-67, Jbe Kruger (RSA) 69-67-67, S.S.P Chawrasia (IND) 68-64-71, Jyoti Randhawa (IND) 64-65-74 204 - Sam Chien (USA) 74-65-65, Hung Chien-yao (TPE) 65-71-68, Gaganjeet Bhullar (IND) 69-66-69, Michael Tran (VNM) 67-66-71, Tirawat Kaewsiribandit (THA) 65-66-73