Fowler takes lead at Phoenix Open

Rickie Fowler had the lead heading into the final round last year at the Phoenix Open, only to see the title slip through his grip for a second time. He will have a big cushion in his third bid to win the championship following a stellar display of golf. Fowler had eight birdies in a 7-under 64 Saturday at TPC Scottsdale to take a four-shot lead over Matt Kuchar into the final round. Justin Thomas, who started one shot behind Fowler, shot 65 and was five back. Branden Grace and Byeong Hun An were at 13 under. David Hearn of Brantford, Ont., was the top Canadian at 7 under, while Adam Hadwin was a 5 under. Fellow Abbotsford native Nick Taylor didn’t make Friday’s cut.