Rhein Gibson is continuing his trend of strong Australian performances as he sits in second place at the ISPS Handa Perth International.
Gibson flew into Perth midday Wednesday and teed off in Round 1 without even seeing the course. It’s turned out well for the New South Welshman who has put together rounds of 67 and today’s 68 to be two shots back of leader Peter Uihlein.
“I always enjoy coming home — I love Karrinyup,” said Gibson to start his post round press conference.
“I played decently last time I was here. I wasn’t in the pro-am so I didn’t even see the first tee or the tenth tee until Thursday lunchtime.”
Gibson started his second round well with birdies on three and seven, but he closed the front nine with back to back bogeys. Gibson was flawless after the turn, going bogey free with four birdies to close at 9-under.
The PGA Tour rookie is happy with where he’s at at the mid-point, and feels if he can match his opening two rounds and go 9-under over the weekend he’ll be in a great position.
“I feel like I’m playing pretty well,” said Gibson.
“I’m just going to stick to my game plan and see where it puts me on Sunday. I’m probably guessing 15 or 16 under will get it done, 18 would be a certainty.”
It’s been a tough year so far for Gibson in his debut season on the PGA Tour. In nine starts he has made just three cuts, and he thinks it will take some great golf going forward to make the top 125 and retain his card.
“I feel like I’ve been playing better than what (my results) have been showing,” said Gibson.
“I’ve dropped down in the reshuffle and now I’m struggling to get into tournaments. It’s given me a good opportunity to get home and get that confidence back up, get some form and take it back to the States when I start playing again.”