Kiradech regains lead in Thongchi Jaidee Foundation
Chonburi - Kiradech Aphibarnrat produced a topsy-turvy form to shoot the round best score of a 68 for a three shot advantage over Pannakorn Uthaipas after round three of the BT4 Million ADT Thongchai Jaidee Foundation yesterday.
Determined to end his two year drought of title, the Thai star generated six birdies, one eagle on the ninth hole against two bogeys and a double bogey on the 11th hole for the day’s lowest score of four under. Only 10 out of 53 players who made the weekend cut managed to hit under par under the windy condition at the par 72 7,495 yard Siam Country Club Waterside.
“I’m happy to still be able to stay in control even though I’m not playing up to my level. I hit some good putts which really helped me out there,” said the three-time European Tour winner. His three day total score of 12 under-par-204 saw him stand three shots ahead of overnight leader Pannakorn Uthaipas who shot an even par on Saturday for nine under-par-207.
“I’m not concerned about the three stroke lead. I will focus on my game plan, hitting shot by shot. If I can play at my level, the other guys will have to work harder to catch up with me,” added the 28-year-old world No 60 in hope to win a home title this afternoon. Yet a stiff back injury is what he fears will hold him back.
“I still feel it during the round and have to stretch it from time to time. But I’m quite confident with my form right now. I hope I can have a terrific week,” said the winner of the inaugural All Thailand Tour – ADT co-sanctioned event in 2015.
“It will be special for me if I win on home soil. My parents, my wife and friends come to support me and I don’t want to let them down,” he added.
Pannakorn stayed neck-and-neck with Kiradech at the front nine before a double bogey on the 11th and two bogeys at the back nine pushed him backward.
“I hit several bad tee shots and made a big mistake on the 11th. Luckily I still shot three straight birdies (holes 14-16) to come back. But it’s still OK. I will try to stick to my game plan, not caring about winning or losing,” said Pannakorn who will overtake Japanese Masaru Takahashi on top of the ADT Order of Merit rankings if he finishes inside the top 5 this week.
American John Catlin and Swede Oscar Zettterwall, after their round of 70, followed at third with 208 each.
