Wafiyuddin bounces back into contention

PETALING JAYA: Muhd Wafiyuddin Abdul Manaf bounced back from two opening bogeys to grab a share of the third-round lead in the inaugural Professional Golf Association of Malaysia (PGAM) Players’ Championship.

The 26-year-old, chasing for a maiden victory since turning professional two years ago, responded with a brilliant eight-birdie spree to be tied at the top with Amir Nazrin Jailani on five-under 211 going into today’s finale at the Impian Golf and Country Club in Kajang yesterday.

Amir needed a birdie on the 17th hole to keep himself in the lead for the third day running as he ground out an even-par 72 and stay on course for his first professional title.

A brilliant 68 lifted Sabahan Brandon Lau into joint third with veteran Rashid Ismail, who carded a 71 to keep alive his hopes of ending a four-year title drought. They are just a stroke behind the joint leaders.

Former international Wafiyuddin was pleased with his efforts to overturn a disastrous start into a title opportunity.

“I stayed positive despite the two early dropped shots,” said Wafiyuddin, who represented Malaysia at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games and 2013 Naypyidaw SEA Games.

“The birdie on the 10th reignited my confidence. To return with five birdies on these grainy greens is quite a feat.

“I don’t want to get ahead of myself. I just want to enjoy my game tomorrow (today). I think I just have to trust the lines and make those putts.”

Amir was disappointed that he failed to emulate his opening-round 68.

“The last two days have been about grinding out a result. I’m happy with the birdie at 17th today because it kept me in the mix,” said the 19-year-old.