Henley seizes 3-stroke lead at PGA CJ Cup

LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Russell Henley opened the back nine with three straight birdies on his way to firing a five-under par 67 for a three-stroke lead after yesterday’s third round of the CJ Cup at Shadow Creek.

The 31-year-old American, chasing his fourth US PGA title but his first in 3 1/2 years, stood on 15-under 201 after 54 holes over the Las Vegas layout.

Compatriots Xander Schauffele, Talor Gooch, Lanto Griffin and Jason Kokrak shared second on 204 with Australian Jason Day, England’s

Tyrrell Hatton and American Justin Thomas sharing sixth on 206.

“I had a nice putting day, made some really nice putts. Kept the ball in front of me and stayed patient,’’ Henley said. “It’s a tough course but if you hit some good shots you can have some chances.’’

World number 121 Henley plans to keep it simple in his bid to add to a trophy haul that includes the 2013 Sony Open in Hawaii, the 2014 Honda Classic and 2017 Houston Open.