Sydney, November 28 - Two-time winner Greg Chalmers from Australia grabbed the halfway lead in the Emirates Australian Open today despite the fact that he is playing in his sixth successive tournament.
Showing little signs of fatigue the lefthander fired a five-under-par 66 at The Australian Golf Club to move to five-under 137 for the championship.
The A$1.25 million event jointly-sanctioned by OneAsia and the PGA Tour of Australasia.
Chalmers leads by a stroke from world number one and defending champion Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland (69), Australians Adam Crawford (69) and Todd Sinnott (67) and American Conrad Shindler (68), who is a graduate from this year's OneAsia Qualifying School.
American Jordan Spieth, the first round leader, carded a 72 and is a stroke further back.
Rory Hie, the only Indonesian in the field, couldn't keep up., and with a second round 75 it is the end of the road for him here in Australia.
“I don’t feel jet-lagged, it’s just my sixth event in a row and I am trying to conserve my energy. Ironically the more birdies I make the more energy I have,” said Chalmers, who won this title in 1998 and 2011.
He bogeyed his opening hole but managed to make the turn in three under, and made three birdies and dropped just one shot on the homeward stretch.
“I have been fortunate to win this event twice. I think it is very early to be talking about (winning) it given who is behind me. It’s very early to be thinking about what will happen on Sunday night. From my experience that hasn’t work out very well for me in the past,” added the 41-year-old who has spent much of his career playing on the US PGA Tour.
McIlroy had a roller-coaster round made up of an eagle, six birdies and five bogies. He was four under on his last five holes.
He said: “I felt like I had an opportunity today to maybe shoot a good one and put a little bit of space between myself and the rest of the field but it didn't really pan out that way; a few too many mistakes and it was pretty tricky out there to be honest. The wind was swirling quite a bit and it made it hard for club selection.”
Spieth, who began on the 10th, salvaged his round with birdies on his last two holes.
“It was a struggle, big time struggle. I wasn't hitting it well. If I wasn't putting well I may have shot 45 on the back nine. It was really tough to start today, I just didn't find the ball striking until the last few holes,” said 21-year-old Spieth.
Scott put his challenge back on track with a round that was eight shots better than his score on the first day.
He made an eagle and three birdies to break the course record which was bettered later in the day by American Jamie Lovemark - a last minute invite to the event who opened with a 77.
“We had a good morning for it this morning, so I had to take advantage just for the sake of getting myself back into the tournament. I guess it’s fun to shoot a course record. I'm pretty sure it might not hold up for the rest of the week but it feels good anyway,” Scott said predicting correctly.
The Australian was one ahead of McIlroy playing the final hole last year only to let the title slip away when he made bogey while the Northern Irishman birdied.
Ask why scores were high and the course was playing so difficult he said: “I think the greens were certainly testing us, getting to understand the slopes on the greens and especially around the edges of the greens.”
Leading second round scores (Par 71):
Australian unless stated
137 – Greg Chalmers 71 66
138 – Rory McIlroy (NIR) 69 69, Adam Crawford 69 69, Todd Sinnott 71 67, Conrad Shindler (US) 70 68
139 – Jordan Spieth (US) 67 72, Geoff Drakeford 69 70, Brett Rumford 70 69
140 – Robert Allenby 71 69, Rod Pampling 73 67, Jake Higginbottom 71 69, Adam Scott 74 66, Rhein Gibson 69 71, Richard Green 69 71
Selected
147 - Rory Hie (INA) 72 75
Friday, November 28, 2014
George Gandranata Misses Cut, Indonesian Masters Winner Lahiri Leads At King's Cup
Khon Kaen, Thailand, November 28 - India’s Anirban Lahiri took the outright lead by signing for a five-under-par 67 after the second round of the King’s Cup at the Singha Park Khon Kaen Golf Club on Friday.
The five-time Asian Tour winner, who shared the overnight lead with compatriot S.S.P. Chowrasia, compiled a two-day total of 12-under-par 132 to take pole position on his own, holding a two-shot advantage over Australia’s Andrew Dodt.
Dodt also rode on his rich vein of form by making a huge move up the leaderboard with a 65 to share second place with Asian Development Tour (ADT) winner Jakraphan Premsirigorn on 134 total.
Local hero Thaworn Wiratchant showed age has not slowed him down by taking fourth place on 135 while Chowrasia posted a 71 to slip to tied-fifth with Australia’s Adam Groom, Spain’s Carlos Pigem and Thailand’s Danthai Boonma and Piya Swangarunporn.
Indonesia's George Gandranata missed out on making the cut when he made double bogey on hole 13. Playing even par on the front nine, he needed to come in at 2-under, but with 3 birdies on the back nine the unlucky 13th hole meant he missed the cut by a single stroke.
Lahiri continued to assert himself at the US$500,000 Asian Tour event with another round that could edge him closer to his third win on the region’s premier Tour this year, after the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters in May and the Venentain Macau Open last month..
While it may not be similar to his opening round where he carded a 65, the Indian is still pleased with his efforts where he traded seven birdies against two bogeys on holes five and 15.
“I’m happy with the way I’m playing. It wasn’t quite as good as it was yesterday but I’m still feeling comfortable on the golf course and the position I’m in.
“I made a couple of dropped shots today, missed more greens than I did yesterday. But I’m happy with the way I finished, especially with those two birdies in the last four holes to pick myself up,” said Lahiri.
Buoyed by his recent good form which included securing his card for Europe next year, Dodt is determined to give Lahiri a good run for his money over the weekend.
The Australian’s sole victory on the Asian Tour came in India in 2010. But with renewed confidence, Dodt believes he can make a stronger push for another grandstand finish.
“Confidence is a huge thing in golf and if you can ride that momentum, you can go a long way. I feel like I’m in a pretty good spot at the moment so I’ll try to push Anirban on the weekend and we’ll see where we end up,” said Dodt.
“I struggled a little bit yesterday but scored well. I hit it a lot better today and holed some new putts. Anytime you can shoot a good score like that, the confidence goes up and I’m looking forward to the weekend,” added the 28-year-old Australian.
Jakraphan, who earned his maiden ADT breakthrough in Sarawak last year, enjoyed a ‘stress-free’ round and is jubilant about staying in the mix and making it into the weekend rounds.
“I’m just playing for fun and not giving myself any pressure. This is my third Asian Tour event after Samui and Chiangmai. I missed the cut in Chiangmai and I’m happy I’ve got a chance to play in the weekend rounds now.
“My ADT win in Sarawak was a big confidence booster. There’s still a long way to go but I’m learning and getting better in each tournament I play,” said Jakraphan.
At 47, Thaworn showed no signs of letting up as he flew back under the radar with a 67.
The Thai already holds an unprecedented 17 titles on the Asian Tour and is looking forward to breaking more records.
“Who says I’m old? Still young boy,” laughed the Thai veteran. “I’m still enjoying my game every day and that’s important. I love my golf and that’s what keeps me going which includes trying to get another win again this week.”
The weekend cut was set at two-under-par with a total of 76 players progressing into the final 36 holes.
Leading Scores after round 2 of the King’s Cup (Par 72):
132 – Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 65-67
134 – Andrew DODT (AUS) 69-65, Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA) 69-65
135 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 68-67
136 – Adam GROOM (AUS) 70-66, Carlos PIGEM (ESP) 67-69, S.S.P CHOWRASIA (IND) 65-71, Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA) 69-67, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 66-70
Selected:
143 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 72-71
The five-time Asian Tour winner, who shared the overnight lead with compatriot S.S.P. Chowrasia, compiled a two-day total of 12-under-par 132 to take pole position on his own, holding a two-shot advantage over Australia’s Andrew Dodt.
Dodt also rode on his rich vein of form by making a huge move up the leaderboard with a 65 to share second place with Asian Development Tour (ADT) winner Jakraphan Premsirigorn on 134 total.
Local hero Thaworn Wiratchant showed age has not slowed him down by taking fourth place on 135 while Chowrasia posted a 71 to slip to tied-fifth with Australia’s Adam Groom, Spain’s Carlos Pigem and Thailand’s Danthai Boonma and Piya Swangarunporn.
Indonesia's George Gandranata missed out on making the cut when he made double bogey on hole 13. Playing even par on the front nine, he needed to come in at 2-under, but with 3 birdies on the back nine the unlucky 13th hole meant he missed the cut by a single stroke.
Lahiri continued to assert himself at the US$500,000 Asian Tour event with another round that could edge him closer to his third win on the region’s premier Tour this year, after the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters in May and the Venentain Macau Open last month..
While it may not be similar to his opening round where he carded a 65, the Indian is still pleased with his efforts where he traded seven birdies against two bogeys on holes five and 15.
“I’m happy with the way I’m playing. It wasn’t quite as good as it was yesterday but I’m still feeling comfortable on the golf course and the position I’m in.
“I made a couple of dropped shots today, missed more greens than I did yesterday. But I’m happy with the way I finished, especially with those two birdies in the last four holes to pick myself up,” said Lahiri.
Buoyed by his recent good form which included securing his card for Europe next year, Dodt is determined to give Lahiri a good run for his money over the weekend.
The Australian’s sole victory on the Asian Tour came in India in 2010. But with renewed confidence, Dodt believes he can make a stronger push for another grandstand finish.
“Confidence is a huge thing in golf and if you can ride that momentum, you can go a long way. I feel like I’m in a pretty good spot at the moment so I’ll try to push Anirban on the weekend and we’ll see where we end up,” said Dodt.
“I struggled a little bit yesterday but scored well. I hit it a lot better today and holed some new putts. Anytime you can shoot a good score like that, the confidence goes up and I’m looking forward to the weekend,” added the 28-year-old Australian.
Jakraphan, who earned his maiden ADT breakthrough in Sarawak last year, enjoyed a ‘stress-free’ round and is jubilant about staying in the mix and making it into the weekend rounds.
“I’m just playing for fun and not giving myself any pressure. This is my third Asian Tour event after Samui and Chiangmai. I missed the cut in Chiangmai and I’m happy I’ve got a chance to play in the weekend rounds now.
“My ADT win in Sarawak was a big confidence booster. There’s still a long way to go but I’m learning and getting better in each tournament I play,” said Jakraphan.
At 47, Thaworn showed no signs of letting up as he flew back under the radar with a 67.
The Thai already holds an unprecedented 17 titles on the Asian Tour and is looking forward to breaking more records.
“Who says I’m old? Still young boy,” laughed the Thai veteran. “I’m still enjoying my game every day and that’s important. I love my golf and that’s what keeps me going which includes trying to get another win again this week.”
The weekend cut was set at two-under-par with a total of 76 players progressing into the final 36 holes.
Leading Scores after round 2 of the King’s Cup (Par 72):
132 – Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 65-67
134 – Andrew DODT (AUS) 69-65, Jakraphan PREMSIRIGORN (THA) 69-65
135 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 68-67
136 – Adam GROOM (AUS) 70-66, Carlos PIGEM (ESP) 67-69, S.S.P CHOWRASIA (IND) 65-71, Piya SWANGARUNPORN (THA) 69-67, Danthai BOONMA (THA) 66-70
Selected:
143 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 72-71
Rory Hie Keeping Up With Rory McIlroy At Emirates Australian Open
Sydney, November 27 - American Jordan Spieth stamped his star quality on the Emirates Australian Open today after taking the first round lead with a four-under-par 67.
Playing in his first tournament Down Under the 21-year-old put together a solid round in difficult windy conditions at The Australian Golf Club.
Australians Aron Price and Scott Gardiner returned 68s in an event jointly-sanctioned by OneAsia and the PGA Tour of Australasia.
World number one and defending champion Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland fired a 69 along with Australians Adam Crawford, Richard Green, Andrew Tampion, Geoff Drakeford, and Brendon De Jonge from Zimbabwe.
Indonesian Rory Hie completed his round in 72 strokes and is currently in a share of 32nd place on the leaderboard, only two strokes back from 'the other Rory'.
Australian Adam Scott, runner-up last year and the champion in 2009, had a poor day and came in with a 74.
“Growing up I always wanted to come and play in Australia. It really was fun today,” said Spieth.
The Texan, paired with Scott and Australian Nick Cullen, toured the outward nine in one-under with two birdies and one dropped shot.
On the homeward stretch he charged up the leader board with three birdies on the trot from the 14th to go to five under. However, he bogeyed the penultimate hole.
Spieth turned professional in 2012 after a stellar amateur career that saw him ranked number one in the world.
The following season he burst onto the professional scene by winning the John Deere Classic to become the fourth youngest PGA Tour winner and the first teenager in 82 years.
This year he has cemented his position as one of the most exciting young players in the game by claiming second place in the US Masters while also making a fine debut in the Ryder Cup.
Price, who spent most of his career playing in the United States, led for much of the day before Spieth took over at the top. He recently welcomed his first child into the world.
“Yeah, it’s taught me a little bit about my golf, just with patience. You think you lose patience out here and trying to stop a little baby crying who’s crying for no reason, it sort of puts perspective on hitting a shot left or right or whatever,” said Price.
McIlroy began his round on the 10th and made the turn in one under. Three birdies on the next nine, including one on the last, and a bogey saw him finish in a strong position.
He said: “I didn't really get much going, I made a lot of pars. The conditions were pretty tricky. It was tough to get the ball close to the pins with the wind and these greens being quite firm as well.”
Having flown in from Dubai on Monday and up early this morning at 4.30 he said he struggled with jet lag today.
“Ball striking wasn't really there. Again, I played okay, I gave myself plenty of chances early on but I just know I can play better, so I feel if I’m on my game, I can get it going and shoot something in the low to mid 60s,” he added.
Leading first round scores (Par 71):
Australian unless stated.
67 – Jordan Spieth (US)
68 – Aron Price, Scott Gardiner
69 – Rory McIlroy (NIR), Adam Crawford, Richard Green, Andrew Tampion, Geoff Drakeford, Brendon De Jonge (ZIM), Achi Sato (JPN)
70 – Brett Rumford, Bryden Macpherson, Antonio Murdaca, Patrick Rodgers (US), Rohan Blizzard, Conrad Shindler (US), Steven Bowditch, David McKenzie, Michael Hendry (NZ), Rhein Gibson, Lincoln Tighe
Selected:
72 – Rory Hie (INA)
Playing in his first tournament Down Under the 21-year-old put together a solid round in difficult windy conditions at The Australian Golf Club.
Australians Aron Price and Scott Gardiner returned 68s in an event jointly-sanctioned by OneAsia and the PGA Tour of Australasia.
World number one and defending champion Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland fired a 69 along with Australians Adam Crawford, Richard Green, Andrew Tampion, Geoff Drakeford, and Brendon De Jonge from Zimbabwe.
Indonesian Rory Hie completed his round in 72 strokes and is currently in a share of 32nd place on the leaderboard, only two strokes back from 'the other Rory'.
Australian Adam Scott, runner-up last year and the champion in 2009, had a poor day and came in with a 74.
“Growing up I always wanted to come and play in Australia. It really was fun today,” said Spieth.
The Texan, paired with Scott and Australian Nick Cullen, toured the outward nine in one-under with two birdies and one dropped shot.
On the homeward stretch he charged up the leader board with three birdies on the trot from the 14th to go to five under. However, he bogeyed the penultimate hole.
Spieth turned professional in 2012 after a stellar amateur career that saw him ranked number one in the world.
The following season he burst onto the professional scene by winning the John Deere Classic to become the fourth youngest PGA Tour winner and the first teenager in 82 years.
This year he has cemented his position as one of the most exciting young players in the game by claiming second place in the US Masters while also making a fine debut in the Ryder Cup.
Price, who spent most of his career playing in the United States, led for much of the day before Spieth took over at the top. He recently welcomed his first child into the world.
“Yeah, it’s taught me a little bit about my golf, just with patience. You think you lose patience out here and trying to stop a little baby crying who’s crying for no reason, it sort of puts perspective on hitting a shot left or right or whatever,” said Price.
McIlroy began his round on the 10th and made the turn in one under. Three birdies on the next nine, including one on the last, and a bogey saw him finish in a strong position.
He said: “I didn't really get much going, I made a lot of pars. The conditions were pretty tricky. It was tough to get the ball close to the pins with the wind and these greens being quite firm as well.”
Having flown in from Dubai on Monday and up early this morning at 4.30 he said he struggled with jet lag today.
“Ball striking wasn't really there. Again, I played okay, I gave myself plenty of chances early on but I just know I can play better, so I feel if I’m on my game, I can get it going and shoot something in the low to mid 60s,” he added.
Leading first round scores (Par 71):
Australian unless stated.
67 – Jordan Spieth (US)
68 – Aron Price, Scott Gardiner
69 – Rory McIlroy (NIR), Adam Crawford, Richard Green, Andrew Tampion, Geoff Drakeford, Brendon De Jonge (ZIM), Achi Sato (JPN)
70 – Brett Rumford, Bryden Macpherson, Antonio Murdaca, Patrick Rodgers (US), Rohan Blizzard, Conrad Shindler (US), Steven Bowditch, David McKenzie, Michael Hendry (NZ), Rhein Gibson, Lincoln Tighe
Selected:
72 – Rory Hie (INA)
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Challenge Ahead For George Gandranata At Kings's Cup
Khon Kaen, Thailand, November 27 - India’s S.S.P. Chowrasia and Anirban Lahiri charged into the early lead with a seven-under-par 65 in the first round of the King’s Cup on Thursday.
The 36-year-old Chowrasia lifted his third Asian Tour title on home soil earlier this month and is showing the same resolve to win again with a near perfect card that was spoilt by a lone bogey on his closing par-four nine.
Double South East Asia (SEA) Games gold medalists Phiphatphong Naewsuk and Danthai Boonma of Thailand kept the pressure on the Indians by returning with matching 66s to trail them by a single shot in third place at the Singha Park Khon Kaen Golf Club.
George Gandranata, the only Indonesian player at this event, had an even par 72, which put him in a tie for 85th place after the first round. This means he needs a stronger second round if he wants to make the cut, which could be at 2 or 3 under par.
Fresh after another victory at home, Chowrasia showed his fondness for playing in Asia again with another assuring performance on the opening day of the US$500,000 King’s Cup.
Starting on the back-nine 10th, he made a quick start with three birdies in his opening four holes.
Chowrasia raced further ahead with five more birdies in his next seven holes after the turn before a bogey on the closing ninth hole put the brakes on his charge.
“I’m pleased with how I’ve played as I shot a really low number. It was unfortunate on the last hole as I hit a good tee shot and again a second shot. But I three-putted there.
“Indian players are doing very well this year and I’ll try to win my first title abroad this week. My season has been very good. I didn’t play well at Q School in Europe but I’m doing well in Asia,” said Chowrasia.
Danthai, who is making his debut as a professional at the King’s Cup, got a dream start he wanted.
The 18-year-old won the team and individual gold medals at the 2012 SEA Games and is carrying his illustrious amateur record over to his maiden professional event, while taking advantage of his course familiarity too.
“Nice way to get my professional career going with a round like this. It’s a dream start and I’m really happy.
“I’m used to this golf course too as this was our training base for the Asian Games where we won the team bronze medal this year too,” said Danthai.
Like Danthai, Phiphatphong is also a double SEA Games gold medallist where he won the team and singles in 2007.
The 24-year-old is seeking his first professional win having come close to victory on the domestic circuit in Chiangmai.
“I’m seeking my first professional win this week and I’m really confident as I’ve played on this golf course many times. Of course, this is an Asian Tour event and the level of competition is higher and it would be good if I can stand on my own against the region’s best players,” said Phiphatphong.
Scores after Round 1 of the King's Cup 2014 (Par 72):
65 - S.S.P CHOWRASIA, Anirban LAHIRI (IND)
66 - Phiphatphong NAEWSUK (THA), Danthai BOONMA (THA). Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS)
67 - Carlos PIGEM (ESP), MO Joong kyung (KOR), Daniel CHOPRA (SWE)
Selected:
72 - George GANDRANATA (INA)
The 36-year-old Chowrasia lifted his third Asian Tour title on home soil earlier this month and is showing the same resolve to win again with a near perfect card that was spoilt by a lone bogey on his closing par-four nine.
Double South East Asia (SEA) Games gold medalists Phiphatphong Naewsuk and Danthai Boonma of Thailand kept the pressure on the Indians by returning with matching 66s to trail them by a single shot in third place at the Singha Park Khon Kaen Golf Club.
George Gandranata, the only Indonesian player at this event, had an even par 72, which put him in a tie for 85th place after the first round. This means he needs a stronger second round if he wants to make the cut, which could be at 2 or 3 under par.
Fresh after another victory at home, Chowrasia showed his fondness for playing in Asia again with another assuring performance on the opening day of the US$500,000 King’s Cup.
Starting on the back-nine 10th, he made a quick start with three birdies in his opening four holes.
Chowrasia raced further ahead with five more birdies in his next seven holes after the turn before a bogey on the closing ninth hole put the brakes on his charge.
“I’m pleased with how I’ve played as I shot a really low number. It was unfortunate on the last hole as I hit a good tee shot and again a second shot. But I three-putted there.
“Indian players are doing very well this year and I’ll try to win my first title abroad this week. My season has been very good. I didn’t play well at Q School in Europe but I’m doing well in Asia,” said Chowrasia.
Danthai, who is making his debut as a professional at the King’s Cup, got a dream start he wanted.
The 18-year-old won the team and individual gold medals at the 2012 SEA Games and is carrying his illustrious amateur record over to his maiden professional event, while taking advantage of his course familiarity too.
“Nice way to get my professional career going with a round like this. It’s a dream start and I’m really happy.
“I’m used to this golf course too as this was our training base for the Asian Games where we won the team bronze medal this year too,” said Danthai.
Like Danthai, Phiphatphong is also a double SEA Games gold medallist where he won the team and singles in 2007.
The 24-year-old is seeking his first professional win having come close to victory on the domestic circuit in Chiangmai.
“I’m seeking my first professional win this week and I’m really confident as I’ve played on this golf course many times. Of course, this is an Asian Tour event and the level of competition is higher and it would be good if I can stand on my own against the region’s best players,” said Phiphatphong.
Scores after Round 1 of the King's Cup 2014 (Par 72):
65 - S.S.P CHOWRASIA, Anirban LAHIRI (IND)
66 - Phiphatphong NAEWSUK (THA), Danthai BOONMA (THA). Kalem RICHARDSON (AUS)
67 - Carlos PIGEM (ESP), MO Joong kyung (KOR), Daniel CHOPRA (SWE)
Selected:
72 - George GANDRANATA (INA)
Sunday, November 23, 2014
George Gandranata Narrowly Misses Top Ten Finish At Resorts World Manila Masters
Manila, November 23 - Overnight leader Mardan Mamat of Singapore ended a two-year title drought by romping to a commanding six-shot victory at the US$1 million Resorts World Manila Masters presented by 918.com on Sunday.
The 47-year-old veteran completed a stylish wire-to wire victory with a final round of three-under-par 69 at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club. His winning total of 20-under-par 268 sealed his fourth Asian Tour success and second in the Philippines.
Frenchman Lionel Weber closed with 70 to finish runner-up for his best result of the season while last year’s runner-up Prom Meesawat of Thailand fired a fine 68 for third place, some eight shots behind the champion in what is the richest tournament in the Philippines.
Reigning Asian Tour number one Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand, who played alongside Mardan, failed to launch a charge as a disappointing 75 saw him settle for fourth place with Australian Sam Brazel, Chinese Taipei’s Hung Chien-yao and American Paul Peterson.
George Gandranata narrowly missed out on a top ten position after firing an even par 72. The total of 281 meant Indonesia highest ranked player finished in 20th position, just one shot of an 11-way tie for 9th.
Entering the week in 74th place on the Order of Merit, Mardan, who earned US$180,000, was in total control as he extended his overnight four-shot lead to six by turning in 34 with two birdies. He dropped a couple of bogeys coming home but three more birdies on the card ensured a victorious walk up the 18th fairway.
“It means a lot to me,” said Mardan, who fell on his knees kissing the ground after tapping in for par at the last hole for what was his career third start-to-finish victory.
“This is my last year of exemption (after winning the 2012 Philippine Open) and I needed to play well to keep my card. I wanted to win again to keep my exemption for the next few years. When I was on the range, the wind was pretty strong and I knew the scores won’t be low.
“I couldn’t control anyone, only myself and I focused on my own game. Playing with Kiradech, who hits it long, I knew I needed to keep to my own pace, keep to my own strength and it worked out.”
Despite holding a big lead down the stretch, Mardan conceded he only felt confident of hoisting the Resorts World Manila Masters trophy after striking his second shot on the closing hole. “Anything can still happen. I didn’t want to make any stupid mistakes and I just kept the ball in play. I didn’t feel comfortable until after I hit my second shot on 18. Only then did I feel comfortable about winning this tournament.”
Lionel Weber (FRA) 02The 24-year-old Weber, playing in his second season on the Asian Tour, savored his runner-up finish where a cheque of US$110,000 was more than enough to seal his card for 2015. “There was a lot of tension and I tried to stay in the present,” said Weber, whose card included five birdies, one bogey and one double bogey.
“I’m happy I have secured my card. It’s a great feeling. I did think I had a chance to catch Mardan when I birdied the first hole but I made some really silly mistakes on the second (for double). Mardan is a very good player and he deserves it.”
After being beaten in a play-off last year, burly Prom was delighted to finish third after shooting 13-under over the weekend rounds as he moved to within US$5,000 shy of second-ranked Anirban Lahiri of India in the Order of Merit race.
“I didn’t have a good draw for the first two days and played in the wind on both days which made it a different course,” said Prom, who barely made the halfway cut with opening rounds of 73 and 72 before setting a new course record of 63 on Saturday.
“When I walked out of the clubhouse and I saw the wind, I knew it was very difficult to catch Mardan. It’s still a good week for me,” said the 30-year-old Prom, who has now earned a career high US$516,512 this year. Big-hitting Kiradech was disappointed he did not apply more pressure on Mardan. After opening with a birdie, he dropped a bogey on two and a double bogey on four subsequently saw him battling for survival.
“It didn’t go as I planned. I was just trying to attack the pin and play more aggressively so I can catch Mardan. The double on four was a big turning point and I couldn’t get my mind back,” said the 25-year-old.
Scores after final round of the Resorts World Manila Masters (Par 72):
268 – Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 65-68-66-69
274 – Lionel WEBER (FRA) 70-70-64-70
276 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 73-72-63-68
278 – Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 67-75-67-69, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 67-71-69-71, Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-70-69-71, Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 66-69-68-75
279 – Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 69-69-68-73
280 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 75-70-68-67, Akinori TANI (JPN) 72-69-70-69, Scott HEND (AUS) 73-69-69-69, WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 68-65-77-70, Chiragh KUMAR (IND) 72-71-67-70, Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-68-70-71, Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 71-71-67-71, Danny CHIA (MAS) 66-71-71-72, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 65-73-70-72, Jbe KRUGER (RSA) 70-73-64-73, Berry HENSON (USA) 74-68-64-74
Selected:
281 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 70-70-69-72
The 47-year-old veteran completed a stylish wire-to wire victory with a final round of three-under-par 69 at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club. His winning total of 20-under-par 268 sealed his fourth Asian Tour success and second in the Philippines.
Frenchman Lionel Weber closed with 70 to finish runner-up for his best result of the season while last year’s runner-up Prom Meesawat of Thailand fired a fine 68 for third place, some eight shots behind the champion in what is the richest tournament in the Philippines.
Reigning Asian Tour number one Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand, who played alongside Mardan, failed to launch a charge as a disappointing 75 saw him settle for fourth place with Australian Sam Brazel, Chinese Taipei’s Hung Chien-yao and American Paul Peterson.
George Gandranata narrowly missed out on a top ten position after firing an even par 72. The total of 281 meant Indonesia highest ranked player finished in 20th position, just one shot of an 11-way tie for 9th.
Entering the week in 74th place on the Order of Merit, Mardan, who earned US$180,000, was in total control as he extended his overnight four-shot lead to six by turning in 34 with two birdies. He dropped a couple of bogeys coming home but three more birdies on the card ensured a victorious walk up the 18th fairway.
“It means a lot to me,” said Mardan, who fell on his knees kissing the ground after tapping in for par at the last hole for what was his career third start-to-finish victory.
“This is my last year of exemption (after winning the 2012 Philippine Open) and I needed to play well to keep my card. I wanted to win again to keep my exemption for the next few years. When I was on the range, the wind was pretty strong and I knew the scores won’t be low.
“I couldn’t control anyone, only myself and I focused on my own game. Playing with Kiradech, who hits it long, I knew I needed to keep to my own pace, keep to my own strength and it worked out.”
Despite holding a big lead down the stretch, Mardan conceded he only felt confident of hoisting the Resorts World Manila Masters trophy after striking his second shot on the closing hole. “Anything can still happen. I didn’t want to make any stupid mistakes and I just kept the ball in play. I didn’t feel comfortable until after I hit my second shot on 18. Only then did I feel comfortable about winning this tournament.”
Lionel Weber (FRA) 02The 24-year-old Weber, playing in his second season on the Asian Tour, savored his runner-up finish where a cheque of US$110,000 was more than enough to seal his card for 2015. “There was a lot of tension and I tried to stay in the present,” said Weber, whose card included five birdies, one bogey and one double bogey.
“I’m happy I have secured my card. It’s a great feeling. I did think I had a chance to catch Mardan when I birdied the first hole but I made some really silly mistakes on the second (for double). Mardan is a very good player and he deserves it.”
After being beaten in a play-off last year, burly Prom was delighted to finish third after shooting 13-under over the weekend rounds as he moved to within US$5,000 shy of second-ranked Anirban Lahiri of India in the Order of Merit race.
“I didn’t have a good draw for the first two days and played in the wind on both days which made it a different course,” said Prom, who barely made the halfway cut with opening rounds of 73 and 72 before setting a new course record of 63 on Saturday.
“When I walked out of the clubhouse and I saw the wind, I knew it was very difficult to catch Mardan. It’s still a good week for me,” said the 30-year-old Prom, who has now earned a career high US$516,512 this year. Big-hitting Kiradech was disappointed he did not apply more pressure on Mardan. After opening with a birdie, he dropped a bogey on two and a double bogey on four subsequently saw him battling for survival.
“It didn’t go as I planned. I was just trying to attack the pin and play more aggressively so I can catch Mardan. The double on four was a big turning point and I couldn’t get my mind back,” said the 25-year-old.
Scores after final round of the Resorts World Manila Masters (Par 72):
268 – Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 65-68-66-69
274 – Lionel WEBER (FRA) 70-70-64-70
276 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 73-72-63-68
278 – Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 67-75-67-69, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 67-71-69-71, Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-70-69-71, Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 66-69-68-75
279 – Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 69-69-68-73
280 – Thaworn WIRATCHANT (THA) 75-70-68-67, Akinori TANI (JPN) 72-69-70-69, Scott HEND (AUS) 73-69-69-69, WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 68-65-77-70, Chiragh KUMAR (IND) 72-71-67-70, Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-68-70-71, Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 71-71-67-71, Danny CHIA (MAS) 66-71-71-72, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 65-73-70-72, Jbe KRUGER (RSA) 70-73-64-73, Berry HENSON (USA) 74-68-64-74
Selected:
281 - George GANDRANATA (INA) 70-70-69-72
Saturday, November 22, 2014
George Gandranata On Verge Of Top Ten In Resorts World Manila Masters
Manila, November 22 - Singapore’s Mardan Mamat cruised into a four-shot lead at the US$1 million Resorts World Manila Masters presented by 918.com after firing a sparkling six-under-par 66 on Saturday.
The 47-year-old, who has held a share of the first and second lead, put himself in prime position to lift a fourth Asian Tour victory at Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club after a round that included seven birdies against a lone bogey for a three-day total of 17-under-par 199.
Thai hotshot Kiradech Aphibarnrat birdied the last hole for a 68 to ensure a final round match-up with Mardan in what is the richest golf tournament in the Philippines while Frenchman Lioniel Weber fired a superb 64 to move into third place, five behind the leader.
American Berry Henson, who also carded a 64, settled for a share of fourth place with Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung, who returned a 68. Last year’s runner-up Prom Meesawat of Thailand produced a new course record of 63 which included seven birdies and one eagle that left him in tied ninth place on 208.
Indonesian George Gandranata scored another strong round, and his 69 helped him climb a further 2 places to a tie for 13th, 10 shots off the lead, but just one shot off a top 10 position.
After ending his second round with four birdies, Mardan, the 2012 Philippine Open champion, picked up from where he left off by firing four straight opening birdies to take full control of the Resorts World Manila Masters.
“I got off to a great start which kind of gave me a good cushion. I kept myself in my own zone. I knew I had to stay calm to maintain my lead. I had to keep myself comfortable which is key for me to playing well. I managed to do that and I am happy,” said Mardan.
Two of his three Asian Tour victories were wire-to-wire triumphs but the Singaporean, who is battling to save his Tour card as he lies in 74th position on the Order of Merit, knows the threat that reigning Asian Tour number one Kiradech will pose on Sunday.
“I’m looking forward to play with Kiradech. He’s a very good player and I know he is a long-hitter so we will see how it goes,” said Mardan. “I’ve been struggling with my game all these while so it would mean a lot for me to win this tournament. I think I would move to the Philippines if I can win here again (laughs).”
The 25-year-old Kiradech, chasing a third Asian Tour victory, birdied the par five 18th hole to ensure he got into the final pairing with Mardan. But the big-hitting Thai hopes a lucky birdie on 15, where he thought he had initially driven his tee shot out of bounds, could be the turning point.
“I got lucky as it hit a tree and bounced back into the course and I made birdie on that hole. It could be a big turning point for me,” Kiradech said. “I am very solid right now. Last two days, I’m playing good golf, striking a lot of good iron shots.
“Mardan’s golf is solid and this course suits his game as he’s a consistent player. If I can get some early birdies tomorrow, I might be able to put some pressure on him.”
Weber took advantage of a hot putter to move into contention as he chases for a maiden win at the Resorts World Manila Masters. “Everything went well. I played my irons very well and my putting was good too. I struggled a bit with my putter in the last tournament but it worked for me today. It was less windy compared to the first two rounds. I guess that explains the low scores,” said the 24-year-old, who is currently ranked 70th on the Merit list.
Henson, also a former Philippine Open champion, produced an eight-birdie round to give himself an outside chance of winning. “I played some solid golf, like finally … It’s been a long year for me. I love this golf course. I honestly felt a low round coming after my round yesterday. I still feel like I haven’t shot my lowest round out here yet,” said the 35-year-old Californian.
Scores after round 3 of the Resorts World Manila Masters (Par 72):
199 – Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 65-68-66
203 – Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 66-69-68
204 – Lionel WEBER (FRA) 70-70-64
206 – Berry HENSON (USA) 74-68-64, Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 69-69-68
207 – Jbe KRUGER (RSA) 70-73-64, Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-70-69, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 67-71-69
208 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 73-72-63, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 69-69-70, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 65-73-70, Danny CHIA (MAS) 66-71-71
209 – Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 67-75-67, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 69-73-67, Simon YATES (SCO) 70-72-67, Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 71-71-67, Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS) 72-69-68, George GANDRANATA (INA) 70-70-69, Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-68-70, Richard T. LEE (CAN) 71-68-70. About the Asian Tour
The 47-year-old, who has held a share of the first and second lead, put himself in prime position to lift a fourth Asian Tour victory at Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club after a round that included seven birdies against a lone bogey for a three-day total of 17-under-par 199.
Thai hotshot Kiradech Aphibarnrat birdied the last hole for a 68 to ensure a final round match-up with Mardan in what is the richest golf tournament in the Philippines while Frenchman Lioniel Weber fired a superb 64 to move into third place, five behind the leader.
American Berry Henson, who also carded a 64, settled for a share of fourth place with Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung, who returned a 68. Last year’s runner-up Prom Meesawat of Thailand produced a new course record of 63 which included seven birdies and one eagle that left him in tied ninth place on 208.
Indonesian George Gandranata scored another strong round, and his 69 helped him climb a further 2 places to a tie for 13th, 10 shots off the lead, but just one shot off a top 10 position.
After ending his second round with four birdies, Mardan, the 2012 Philippine Open champion, picked up from where he left off by firing four straight opening birdies to take full control of the Resorts World Manila Masters.
“I got off to a great start which kind of gave me a good cushion. I kept myself in my own zone. I knew I had to stay calm to maintain my lead. I had to keep myself comfortable which is key for me to playing well. I managed to do that and I am happy,” said Mardan.
Two of his three Asian Tour victories were wire-to-wire triumphs but the Singaporean, who is battling to save his Tour card as he lies in 74th position on the Order of Merit, knows the threat that reigning Asian Tour number one Kiradech will pose on Sunday.
“I’m looking forward to play with Kiradech. He’s a very good player and I know he is a long-hitter so we will see how it goes,” said Mardan. “I’ve been struggling with my game all these while so it would mean a lot for me to win this tournament. I think I would move to the Philippines if I can win here again (laughs).”
The 25-year-old Kiradech, chasing a third Asian Tour victory, birdied the par five 18th hole to ensure he got into the final pairing with Mardan. But the big-hitting Thai hopes a lucky birdie on 15, where he thought he had initially driven his tee shot out of bounds, could be the turning point.
“I got lucky as it hit a tree and bounced back into the course and I made birdie on that hole. It could be a big turning point for me,” Kiradech said. “I am very solid right now. Last two days, I’m playing good golf, striking a lot of good iron shots.
“Mardan’s golf is solid and this course suits his game as he’s a consistent player. If I can get some early birdies tomorrow, I might be able to put some pressure on him.”
Weber took advantage of a hot putter to move into contention as he chases for a maiden win at the Resorts World Manila Masters. “Everything went well. I played my irons very well and my putting was good too. I struggled a bit with my putter in the last tournament but it worked for me today. It was less windy compared to the first two rounds. I guess that explains the low scores,” said the 24-year-old, who is currently ranked 70th on the Merit list.
Henson, also a former Philippine Open champion, produced an eight-birdie round to give himself an outside chance of winning. “I played some solid golf, like finally … It’s been a long year for me. I love this golf course. I honestly felt a low round coming after my round yesterday. I still feel like I haven’t shot my lowest round out here yet,” said the 35-year-old Californian.
Scores after round 3 of the Resorts World Manila Masters (Par 72):
199 – Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 65-68-66
203 – Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 66-69-68
204 – Lionel WEBER (FRA) 70-70-64
206 – Berry HENSON (USA) 74-68-64, Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 69-69-68
207 – Jbe KRUGER (RSA) 70-73-64, Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-70-69, HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 67-71-69
208 – Prom MEESAWAT (THA) 73-72-63, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 69-69-70, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 65-73-70, Danny CHIA (MAS) 66-71-71
209 – Sam BRAZEL (AUS) 67-75-67, Shiv KAPUR (IND) 69-73-67, Simon YATES (SCO) 70-72-67, Arie IRAWAN (MAS) 71-71-67, Jake HIGGINBOTTOM (AUS) 72-69-68, George GANDRANATA (INA) 70-70-69, Thitiphun CHUAYPRAKONG (THA) 71-68-70, Richard T. LEE (CAN) 71-68-70. About the Asian Tour
Friday, November 21, 2014
George Gandranata Moving Upwards At Resorts World Manila Masters
Manila, November 21 - Korean teenager Wang Jeung-hun fired a sizzling seven-under-par 65 to share the halfway lead with overnight leader Mardan Mamat of Singapore at the US$1 million Resorts World Manila Masters presented by 918.com on Friday.
The 19-year-old Wang nailed nine birdies against two bogeys for a two-day total of 11-under-par 133, matching the efforts of Mardan, who finished strongly for a 68 at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.
Reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand was two shots back in third place following a 69 while Malaysia’s Danny Chia and Englishman Steve Lewton shared fourth on 137 at the richest golf event in the Philippines.
Hung Chien-yao of Chinese Taipei, Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung and Japan’s Daisuke Kataoka, who was the co-overnight leader, were amongst those sharing sixth place on 138.
Indonesia's George Gandranata was able to fire another solid round of 70 to climb on the leaderboard to a tie for 15th, 7 shots of the lead. Fellow Indonesian Rory Hie (75) had more problems, and with his halfway total of 149 he missed the cut by 4 shots.
Wang, who lived in the Philippines for six years and won the 2011 Philippines Amateur Championship, credited some luck and a hot putter for propelling him into the lead for the first time in an Asian Tour event.
“I have a lot of lucky shots. On my first hole at the 10th, my shot was going out of bounds but it hit the camera tower and bounced into play. I will try my best again tomorrow and hopefully I can keep it going. I have played here a couple of times last year so I’m pretty familiar with the course,” said the Korean, whose family moved to Manila to help in his golf career due to the cheaper costs to practice.
“I changed my putter last week and it’s working well. I am very nervous to be in the lead actually. I will play safely and try to stay out of trouble. Philippines feel a bit like home to me.”
Veteran Mardan was one over par through 12 holes before brilliantly sinking five birdies over his closing six holes to give himself a chance of winning a fourth Asian Tour victory and save his Tour card.
“I told myself to stay patient and I managed to finish well. I knew I had to keep to my pace to stay in contention and I managed to do it,” said the 47-year-old veteran, who is in 74th position on the Order of Merit.
The Singaporean swinger said the birdie on six from close range helped him finish strongly. “I hit good iron shots and my putting got better on the back nine. My longest putt was on the seventh hole from about 20 feet. The birdie on sixth actually got my momentum going. I hit a four iron to about two feet and I regained my confidence from there,” he said.
After struggling all season, Mardan finished well last week in Chiangmai and said his good friend Zaw Moe of Myanmar pointed out some flaws in his game.
“He kind of pin-pointed my problems. It seems like my ball position was not in place and that’s why my game was all over the place. It’s back in shape now and I guess that’s why I am playing differently these two weeks. It’s good to have to a friend who knows my swing well and is able to spot what I’ve been doing wrong. It’s more the fundamentals that I’ve been working on. I’m happy it’s paying off now,” said the 47-year-old.
Big-hitting Kiradech paid the price for being overly aggressive on the par five 18th hole which cost him a bogey and dropped him two shots off the lead.
“It’s not a bad position but I’m not happy with my finish, finishing with a six which I’m quite upset. I couldn’t get up and down from about 15 yards with the third shot. It wasn’t good. My caddy asked me to lay up … it wasn’t sitting in a good lie but I was trying to hit it as close as possible to the green and get up and down for birdie to tie for the lead,” said the 25-year-old.
“I’m striking the ball well and rolling the ball well. I’ve got a lot of confidence after some top five or top-10s. I’m going for another title.”
Lewton, who claimed a breakthrough Asian Tour victory at the Mercuries Taiwan Masters in October, was relieved to regain some good form after missing three of his last four cuts. “I got off to a really good start and putted very nicely. I missed a few birdie chances but managed to pick up on seventh and eighth,” said the tall Englishman.
Local veteran Antonio Lascuna emerged as the highest placed Filipino following a 71 to trail by the leading duo by five on 139 in tied 11th place while defending champion Liang Wen-chong of China recorded a second straight 71 to sit in tied 29th position.
The halfway cut was set at 145 with 66 players moving into the last two rounds.
Scores after round 2 of the Resorts World Manila Masters (Par 72:
133 – Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 65-68, WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 68-65
135 – Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 66-69
137 – Danny CHIA (MAS) 66-71, Steve LEWTON (ENG) 71-66
138 – HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 67-71, Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 69-69, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 65-73, Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-70, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 69-69
Selected:
140 – George GANDRANATA (INA) 70-70
149 - Rory HIE (INA) 74-75
The 19-year-old Wang nailed nine birdies against two bogeys for a two-day total of 11-under-par 133, matching the efforts of Mardan, who finished strongly for a 68 at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.
Reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand was two shots back in third place following a 69 while Malaysia’s Danny Chia and Englishman Steve Lewton shared fourth on 137 at the richest golf event in the Philippines.
Hung Chien-yao of Chinese Taipei, Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung and Japan’s Daisuke Kataoka, who was the co-overnight leader, were amongst those sharing sixth place on 138.
Indonesia's George Gandranata was able to fire another solid round of 70 to climb on the leaderboard to a tie for 15th, 7 shots of the lead. Fellow Indonesian Rory Hie (75) had more problems, and with his halfway total of 149 he missed the cut by 4 shots.
Wang, who lived in the Philippines for six years and won the 2011 Philippines Amateur Championship, credited some luck and a hot putter for propelling him into the lead for the first time in an Asian Tour event.
“I have a lot of lucky shots. On my first hole at the 10th, my shot was going out of bounds but it hit the camera tower and bounced into play. I will try my best again tomorrow and hopefully I can keep it going. I have played here a couple of times last year so I’m pretty familiar with the course,” said the Korean, whose family moved to Manila to help in his golf career due to the cheaper costs to practice.
“I changed my putter last week and it’s working well. I am very nervous to be in the lead actually. I will play safely and try to stay out of trouble. Philippines feel a bit like home to me.”
Veteran Mardan was one over par through 12 holes before brilliantly sinking five birdies over his closing six holes to give himself a chance of winning a fourth Asian Tour victory and save his Tour card.
“I told myself to stay patient and I managed to finish well. I knew I had to keep to my pace to stay in contention and I managed to do it,” said the 47-year-old veteran, who is in 74th position on the Order of Merit.
The Singaporean swinger said the birdie on six from close range helped him finish strongly. “I hit good iron shots and my putting got better on the back nine. My longest putt was on the seventh hole from about 20 feet. The birdie on sixth actually got my momentum going. I hit a four iron to about two feet and I regained my confidence from there,” he said.
After struggling all season, Mardan finished well last week in Chiangmai and said his good friend Zaw Moe of Myanmar pointed out some flaws in his game.
“He kind of pin-pointed my problems. It seems like my ball position was not in place and that’s why my game was all over the place. It’s back in shape now and I guess that’s why I am playing differently these two weeks. It’s good to have to a friend who knows my swing well and is able to spot what I’ve been doing wrong. It’s more the fundamentals that I’ve been working on. I’m happy it’s paying off now,” said the 47-year-old.
Big-hitting Kiradech paid the price for being overly aggressive on the par five 18th hole which cost him a bogey and dropped him two shots off the lead.
“It’s not a bad position but I’m not happy with my finish, finishing with a six which I’m quite upset. I couldn’t get up and down from about 15 yards with the third shot. It wasn’t good. My caddy asked me to lay up … it wasn’t sitting in a good lie but I was trying to hit it as close as possible to the green and get up and down for birdie to tie for the lead,” said the 25-year-old.
“I’m striking the ball well and rolling the ball well. I’ve got a lot of confidence after some top five or top-10s. I’m going for another title.”
Lewton, who claimed a breakthrough Asian Tour victory at the Mercuries Taiwan Masters in October, was relieved to regain some good form after missing three of his last four cuts. “I got off to a really good start and putted very nicely. I missed a few birdie chances but managed to pick up on seventh and eighth,” said the tall Englishman.
Local veteran Antonio Lascuna emerged as the highest placed Filipino following a 71 to trail by the leading duo by five on 139 in tied 11th place while defending champion Liang Wen-chong of China recorded a second straight 71 to sit in tied 29th position.
The halfway cut was set at 145 with 66 players moving into the last two rounds.
Scores after round 2 of the Resorts World Manila Masters (Par 72:
133 – Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 65-68, WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 68-65
135 – Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 66-69
137 – Danny CHIA (MAS) 66-71, Steve LEWTON (ENG) 71-66
138 – HUNG Chien-yao (TPE) 67-71, Nicholas FUNG (MAS) 69-69, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 65-73, Paul PETERSON (USA) 68-70, Javi COLOMO (ESP) 69-69
Selected:
140 – George GANDRANATA (INA) 70-70
149 - Rory HIE (INA) 74-75
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