Golf-Green shoots 63 to lead Deere Classic

Chicago, July 14: Australian Nathan Green wielded a hot putter rolling in eight birdies in a bogey-free round to seize a one-stroke lead midway through the John Deere Classic in Silvis, Illinois.

Green, refreshed after a three-week break from golf, posted an eight-under 63 for his lowest PGA Tour round to finish 36 holes on 12-under-par 130 at TPC Deere Run yesterday.

Tied for second at 11-under 131 were Sweden's Carl Pettersson, who took advantage of soft greens to post a 64, and American Jason Dufner, who shot 66.

Another stroke back was overnight leader Neal Lancaster, who followed his opening 64 with a 68 for 132.

The 32-year-old Green, who returned to the US on Monday after recharging his batteries back in his home state of New South Wales, is looking for his first PGA Tour victory in 51 starts.

''Just coming off three weeks' break so didn't do any practice at all,'' said Green, a relatively short hitter who has posted just one bogey in the tournament.

''Played three games of social golf and came in not expecting much. The putter has pretty much been the reason.'' Green hopes to follow in the footsteps of compatriot John Senden, who won the tournament last year. Senden will not be in the field for the weekend, however, after adding a 71 to his miserable opening 78 for 149.

Seventy-one players made the cut set at two-under 140.

Among those missing for the weekend will be Masters champion Zach Johnson, who came up one stroke short after registering a 71 for 141.

The John Deere Classic marks the last opportunity to earn an exemption into next week's British Open. The leading player in this tournament inside the top 10, not otherwise exempt, will gain a spot in the Carnoustie field.

Reuters






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