Matteo Manassero
Italy’s Matteo Manassero edged closer to an early birthday present as he took a share of the third round lead with Alexander Noren of Sweden at the US$2.5 million Maybank Malaysian Open on Sunday.
Manassero posted a flawless five-under-par 67 while Noren remained in contention with a 71 for a 204 total at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy was the outright leader after 14 holes before dropping a costly bogey on 15 for a third round 72. He is one stroke from the leaders in the tournament which is celebrating its 50th anniversary and co sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.
Frenchman Gregory Bourdy and Felipe Aguilar of Chile trail closely in tied fourth on a 206 total.
Manassero celebrates his 18th birthday next Tuesday and continued his relentless charge when he returned with two birdies in nine holes this morning.
“I had a good practice session and was hitting the ball a lot better. I kept it going this morning hitting some good shots. I’ve not missed a green this morning. It was a pure round,” said Manassero, who was last year’s rookie of the year in Europe.
“I could have done better but I’m happy – it puts me in contention. It will be a good final round. It would a great birthday gift if I could win today,” added the Italian.
McIlroy is looking to make amends after last week’s Masters disappointment where he led for 63 holes before a final round 80. He was on track for the outright lead before a bogey on hole 15 where his tee shot landed on the slope and went down hill.
“I got off to a nice start with a birdie at ten. I played decent but couldn’t get anything going. There’s still a long way more to go,” said the 21-year-old.
