EDDIE FACES TWIN PEAKS TO RING BEL
EDDIE PEPPERELL will have to fight off his own demons and a large chasing pack to claim the title at the Betfred British Masters today.
Former Ryder Cup stars Chris Wood and Eduardo Molinari refound their old form back at The Belfry yesterday.
But it was Pepperell who returned to the top of the leaderboard with a 40-foot birdie putt on the last in pursuit of his first victory since winning this event in 2018.
The Englishman, who has admitted he has struggled during the pandemic, said: “I’ve been awful to be honest so I don’t feel that confident.
“I remember the game feeling easier when I was playing better a few years ago.
“It’s either something or champagne for me at the moment – and that seems to be the way it is... I felt drained – it was the first time in about a year I took some Lemsip to get rid of some of the aches of pains going on.
“There is a fair bit riding on it for me. I’m quietly excited but we’ll see.”
Scots Bob MacIntyre and Calum Hill are in the six-way tie for second a shot back.
MacIntyre, who shot a 70, said: “That’s the worst it could have been, really that could have been another 66, easily.”
World No.638 Molinari is also in tiedsecond on nine under par after his 64 yesterday. “I think I finally made some putts today,” said the Italian.
“If a 10 handicapper putted from the beginning of the season instead of me, I think I would be doing better.”
Wood is three off the lead after a 68 following years of injuries and bad form.
“It has been a long old road and here is light at the end of the tunnel,” said the Bristolian.
“And for 18 months I’ve seen no light, nothing. I’ve been a disaster technically for a few years.
“Living in a hotel room on your own, it’s unbearable.
“I took a lot of time off last year. I feel I have come out on the other side in a better place.”
Meanwhile, Phil Mickelson (above) has accepted a special invite to play in next month’s US Open as he again bids to complete his career Grand Slam.