Daylight for Tabuena as rain holds off at Yeangder tournament

TAIPEI: Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines opened up a two-shot lead at the rain-shortened Yeangder Tournament Players Championship yesterday as he attempts to erase last year’s playoff disappointment.

Tabuena, who lost to Prom Meesawat of Thailand on the second play-off hole a year ago, shot a bogeyfree seven-under-par 65 to lead on 11-under-par 133 in Taiwan.

The US$500,000 Asian Tour tournament has been slashed to 54 holes after rain washed out the second round at Taipei’s Linkou International Golf and Country Club on Friday.

Rookie Natipong Srithong of Thailand also shot a 65 to tie for second place alongside home favourite Lin Wen-tang (68).

“I want to seek vengeance. Hopefully I can get it done tomorrow. I know I’m playing well at the moment,” said Tabuena. “There are a few players behind me including Lin Wen-tang. But I’m not worried. If he can go low so can I,” added the 20-year-old.

Niall Turner of Ireland shared fourth place with Taiwan’s Lien Lu-sen and Shaun Norris of South Africa.

Lin, a six-time Asian Tour winner, hopes to become the first l ocal winner since 2011 after charging into contention with six birdies against two bogeys.

The 22-year-old Natipong was the surprise package at the Yeangder TPC as he was playing in only his second tournament as a professional after joining the play-for-pay ranks two months ago.

“I’m very excited and nervous because I’m in position to win my first professional title. If I win, I will get an Asian Tour card and I don’t have to go to Qualifying School next year!” laughed the Thai, who fired eight birdies.