Zheng And Tabuena Set Up Thrilling Final-Day Showdown In Philippines
China’s rising star and home hero share lead as Sarit clings on in dramatic moving day at Sta. Elena
Dubai, UAE - Sampson Zheng fired a blistering 10-under-par 62 to join Miguel Tabuena and overnight leader Sarit Suwannarut at the top heading into the final round of the US $2 million International Series Philippines at Sta. Elena Golf Club.
Thailand’s Sarit, chasing a third International Series crown, began the third round four clear but could not shake the field with a three-under 69. He now faces a tense Sunday after being caught by Zheng’s stunning charge and Tabuena’s inspired 65, which included two eagles.
“I just hit a lot of greens and made a lot of putts,” said Zheng, 24. “I honestly didn’t feel like I did anything super special, but I stuck to the game plan and fortunately made some putts.” The former California Golden Bear highlighted his round with an eagle at the par-five eighth and a four-birdie burst from 14 to 17. “My second shot into eight was probably the best of the day – a four-hybrid to 24 feet – and that really got the snowball rolling,” he added.
Tabuena, playing with a blue ribbon in memory of his late friend Paolo ‘Paowee’ Tantoco, thrilled home fans with eagles at the third and 16th. “To be honest, I totally forgot my score out there,” the Filipino said. “I was just cruising and found myself in a real flow state. It’s even more special that it’s happening here at home. Hopefully, I can get the job done tomorrow.”
After 16 birdies in his first 36 holes, Sarit managed only five more alongside two bogeys. “It was a tough day,” said the 27-year-old. “I didn’t hit my driver as good as the first two days, and the pins were tougher. Someone could shoot 10-under again and jump up the board, but I’m going to play my best and see what happens.” Japan’s Yosuke Asaji (65) sits one back, while South Africa’s Dean Burmester (65) and Japan’s Kazuki Higa (68) are a further stroke adrift.
Star draw Dustin Johnson carded a 68 to move to eight-under and tied 26th, while fellow 4Aces GC teammate Patrick Reed slipped to nine-under after a 71. Sunday promises a captivating finale as three continents’ finest talents go head-to-head for one of the Asian Tour’s richest titles.
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