YANKS VERY MUCH!
Spieth three clear as Americans take control at Birkdale
SPANK the Yanks? That war cry from Brit Ian Poulter fell on deaf American ears at Royal Birkdale yesterday.
Jordan Spieth’s stunning 65 gives him a three-shot lead as he aims to complete the third leg of a career Grand Slam, while Matt Kuchar took Route 66 to sit in second and US Open champion Brooks Koepka shot 68 to end the day in a tie for third.
CHEERED on by 200 Millwall fans at Birkdale, former postie Alfie Plant is a real working-class hero.
He is already guaranteed the Silver Medal for the best amateur – in fact, he is the only amateur to make the final two rounds – but also reversed the Lions’ ‘famous theme tune, ‘No one likes us, we don’t care’.
PLANT follows in the footsteps of previous Birkdale Silver Medal winners Justin ROSE (1998) and Chris
WOOD (2008). Fans certainly warmed to the bearded wonder from Bexleyheath as he laughed and smiled around this gorgeous North West links.
His dad Darren, a former cobbler, led the chorus line as pals stormed round every yard of the course to offer their support.
They have virtually taken over nearby Pontins and, as one said: “It’s the Open by day and Shirley Bassey tributes by night.”
Mum Emma is still a Royal Mail worker and younger brother Albert is on his bag and has already been dubbed ‘Bert on the bag’ by pals.
They are a fun-loving group and prove golf is now open to the masses – not just old guys in suits.
They even indulged in a bit of banter with Justin Rose by claiming ‘a Plant is stronger than a Rose’.
Rose has taken it in good humour and spent time with Plant, who intends to turn professional in September.
The ambitious youngster, 25, is comfortable being known as a working-class hero.
He said: “If I can help others to be inspired then it’s great news.
“We are working class, we’re normal people from Bexleyheath, so anyone can do it.
“There have been struggles over the years but it’s all been worthwhile getting here.”
Plant, once a postman in Dartford, shot a one-under round of 69 yesterday and is three over for the week.
He added: “These are all my dreams coming true. Coming up the 18th and hearing my fans cheering made the hairs on my head stand up.
“My house was pretty wild last night when it was discovered I had won the Silver Medal.
“I might take it to Millwall and show it off but I’ll check how much it’s worth on eBay first!
“I’ve had to pinch myself at times and I’ve taken a moment to just sit and soak it all up.
“And I would love it if I could follow in the footsteps of Justin Rose ”
Plant revealed his girlfriend is – wait for it – Daisy MEADOWS.
Beaming dad Darren said: “There’s a theme here. Daisy, Wood, Rose and Toby Tree who finished before him. Sounds like some kind of flower show.
“But what a week! All my dreams are coming true here. I am so proud.”