Simpson seizes PGA lead with English trio on his heels

NORTON (United States): Webb Simpson closed with an eagle from 70 feet to seize a one-stroke lead over England’s Justin Rose and Tyrrell Hatton after Saturday’s second round of the PGA Dell Technologies Championship.

The 33-year-old American, seeking his second title in seven seasons at TPC Boston, rolled in his dramatic third shot at the par-5 18th to complete a bogeyfree eight-under par 63 to stand on 11-under 131 after 36 holes.

“To eagle the last was exciting and you just kind of laugh at those, because you’re not trying to make them, you’re just trying to get them close,” Simpson said.

Hatton, who also fired a 63, was level with Rose, who shot 67, on 132 with England’s Tommy Fleetwood fourth on 134 and Australia’s Cameron Smith and Mexican Abraham Ancer another stroke adrift.

World number 17 Simpson was the last of eight qualifiers on points for a spot on the US Ryder Cup squad that will defend the trophy against Europe later this month in France.

Battling the top English trio for victory could be a taste of the Ryder Cup showdown coming September 28-30 at Le Golf National.

Fleetwood birdied six of his first 10 holes to shoot 65.

Tiger Woods was confident after a bogey-free 66 to share 21st on 138.

His five birdies included a 25foot gem of a putt at the 14th.