RAZORBACK

Buhl lurks after firing 5-under 66.

University of Arkansas golfer William Buhl is three shots off the lead heading into today’s final round of the 113th Southern Amateur.

And it’s right where he wants to be.

“You have to go out there and chase, which is more fun than holding the lead anyway,” said Buhl, who posted a 5-under 66 on Friday to move to 6 under for the tournament.

John Keefer and Walker Lee lead the tournament at 9 under, while Buhl is in a four-way tie for ninth.

Buhl, the top player with Arkansas connections, has improved three shots each day after opening with a 1-over 72 on Wednesday — shooting 2-under 69 on Thursday to move into a tie for 22nd.

Buhl said getting a feel for the swift, smooth greens at Chenal Country Club’s Founders Course has been key to his rise into contention.

“Seeing putts fall is a big thing for me,” said Buhl, who is from Oslo, Norway. “For my game it is. I’m probably your average putter. I’m a better ball striker than anything else.”

Buhl’s round Friday included seven birdies and two bogeys, with four consecutive birdies rolling in on holes 14-17.

Fayetteville’s Luke Long (Houston) and Hope’s Garrett May (Baylor) are tied for 21st at 2 under after shooting rounds of 71 and 66, respectively. May’s 66 came after he opened with a 75 and shot 70 on Thursday to make the cut on the 3-over number.

Arkansas golfer Tyler Reeder is tied for 43rd after an even-par round of 71. Julian Perico is tied for 59th after a 2-over 73.