Nienaber grabs lead at UAE Challenge
ABU DHABI: Wilco Nienaber will take a two-shot lead into the final round of the UAE Challenge after carding a three-under round of 69 on day three at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
The South African made seven birdies and four bogeys on another testing day at the Abu Dhabi venue, and is now in prime position on 12 under par to clinch his second career Challenge Tour title.
“Today was pretty good,” said Nienaber, who also impressed last week carding a round of 60 at the Abu Dhabi Challenge. “I hit a couple of iffy shots but all in all, very good.
“This is the fourth tournament in a row where I’m going into Sunday with a chance to win. It’s not quite worked out, but that’s just the way the game is. Hopefully tomorrow I’ll feel more comfortable. Last week I felt more comfortable, but it didn’t go my way.”
While Nienaber holds a commanding lead, he won’t be without a fight with a host of talented players within the chasing pack including 2015 Abu Dhabi Championship winner Gary Stal.
The Frenchman beat Rory Mcilroy by one shot to win at Abu Dhabi Golf Club nine years ago, and he heads into tomorrow’s final round three shots back on nine under after carding a six-under 66.
“I played really good today,” said Stal. “My driving was great and my iron play was perfect. My game’s strong and it’s good for the future.
“My plan for tomorrow is to keep it straight and make some birdies early which is the most important thing.”
Dubai amateur Oscar Craig also enjoyed another solid day carding a level-par round which included three birdies and three bogeys.
The 17-year-old, who has stepfather Tommy Fleetwood on his bag this week, was the only amateur to make the cut and he heads into the final round on two under for the week.
“There was way more relief today rather than stress because I’ve made the cut now,” said Craig. “I was so happy with how I’ve played, it’s been another steady day again.
“I’ve had quite a few messages to be fair about making the cut. It’s all been really positive and my mates have been really happy. My family have been chuffed as well, it’s been nice to see,” he added.
The final round gets underway at 7:30 on Sunday, with Nienaber teeing off at 9:30, Stal at 9:18 and Craig at 8:18.
Golf fans are encouraged to come along to this week’s UAE Challenge, which is supported by Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Arena, Phoenix Capital and Al Laith to see the stars of tomorrow in action with entry free of charge and no ticket required. The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) was formed in 1995 and is the Governing Body of Golf in the UAE.