Lowry bounces back with 69 in Sawgrass

THE Ryder Cup standings are not overly encouraging for Open champion Shane Lowry right now, although that could all change pending a final day challenge in The Players at Sawgrass.

Last night, Lowry shot a third round 69 for five-under overall, which leaves him inside the top 20 heading into today’s final round.

It was a welcome reponse to his difficult second-round 74 which undid the good work of Thursday’s 68 but even though he may be too far back to realistically challenge for victory today, he has a noted admirer in Pádraig Harrington.

The European Ryder Cup captain recognises the talent on show in their regular practice rounds, which continue in the Honda Classic at Palm Beach this week.

‘I play with Shane most weeks and he’s the best Tuesday and Wednesday player in the world,’ insisted Harrington. ‘I’m his ATM friend on practice days. I’m donating money all the time. ‘Tee to green, it’s the best he’s played. He missed the cut in Bay

Hill and he was third in greens in regulation.

‘It might be stressful for him, and for his fans at home at the moment, but I’d love to say in a few months’ time “I told you so” And I believe I will.’ Lowry (below) has reverted to a regular putting grip, rather than left hand below right, as he seeks a silkier touch on the greens.

‘He’s not putting as well as he’d like and he just needs to be patient. It’ll come out. I know it will.’ Harrington is adamant Lowry can make a positive imprint on the Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits

‘Shane’s a big-time player. He’ll be a force in matchplay on a course that suits him. He’s the type of player and personality anyone would want on their team.’

Harrington has expressed his reluctance to play any of his three wild cards on rookies, which puts it up to Lowry to qualify automatically.