Green leads John Deere Classic
2007-07-14 10:34
Chicago - Australian Nathan Green
wielded a hot putter on Friday 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.
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.