Grillo gets back in the groove
ARGENTINA’S Emiliano Grillo was denied his first European Tour title by Scot Stephen Gallacher two weeks ago.
Today he has the chance to make amends as he goes into the final round of the Africa Open two shots clear of England’s Oliver Fisher following a brilliant third round 62.
The 21-year-old had the clubhouse lead in the Dubai Desert Classic earlier this month, only to watch as Gallacher birdied the 16th and 17th holes to deny him victory.
“I thought I had it for a moment but Stephen played great on the last few holes so he got the trophy and I got second place,” said Grillo.
“But that putt on the last hole gave me a lot of confidence for the rest of the year.”
Speaking about yesterday’s round, he added: “I played quite good but the putter helped the most.”
American John Hahn had maintained his two-shot overnight advantage for much of the third round but fell out of a share of the lead with a bogey on the 12th.
Grillo pressed home his advantage with birdies at the 15th and 16th.
Fisher shot his second 66 of the week, playing his final four holes in four under par for the second day in succession.
Third round totals
(Gbr & Irl unless stated. Par 71): 193 — Emiliano Grillo
(Arg) 68 63 62 195 — Oliver Fisher 66
63 66 197 — Richard Bland 64 69 64, Thomas Aiken (Rsa) 66 65 66, John Hahn (USA) 65 61 71 Other scores include: 206 — Jamie McLeary 69 68 69, David Drysdale 65 70 71, Michael Hoey 68 68 70.