Australian Stacey Keating is just one stroke behind leader Caroline Misson in second place after the third round of the Open de Espana Femenino. Keating rose six places into second at seven-under for the tournament following four birdies on the back nine. The Australian carded a two-under 70 to end the penultimate round a shot ahead of Frenchwoman Joanna Klatten (72). Masson of Germany stormed to the top of the leaderboard on the back of a two-under 70 display on Saturday. Masson, looking to add to her maiden European Tour win at the South African Women&aposs Open in July, shot four birdies to move a stroke clear of nearest rival Keating at eight-under. “It was pretty tough,” the German said. “The wind was way stronger than the last days and we were in trouble on second it started. “And then pretty much every hole there were many, many rulings, lots of time, we were on the clock so I was a little stressed out sometimes. “I&aposm glad I could finish two-under. I think that&aposs a good score in the wind and I&aposm just happy with my situation for tomorrow.” Overnight leader Nikki Garrett fell three shots off the pace and dropped into a tie for fourth alongside France&aposs Celine Palomar (73) following her two-over 74. Garrett, a runner-up at the Spanish event last year, sunk a final-hole birdie to retain her overnight lead on Friday, however she fell away with four bogeys. Lee-Anne Pace (72) of South Africa climbed up to sixth and is joined by Thailand&aposs Nontaya Srisawang (72) and American Esther Choe (73) at four under overall. Lydia Hall was one of the day&aposs biggest movers. The Welshwoman registered a three-under 69 to close Saturday at three-under for the tournament, five shots adrift of leader Masson. Hall shares ninth position with English pair Hannah Burke (73) and Trish Johnson (72).
Author: Omnisport