Woodland, Hoffman join three-way tie for shootout lead

Miami (AFP) – Gary Woodland and Charley Hoffman had eight birdies in their eight-under 64 on Saturday to join a three-way tie for the lead after the modified alternate-shot second round of the QBE Shootout.

Americans Woodland and Hoffman had the round of the day at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida. It was good enough for a share of the lead on 19-under 125 alongside two teams who shared the overnight lead: Graeme McDowell and Emiliano Grillo and Patton Kizzire and Brian Harman.

Northern Ireland’s McDowell and Argentina’s Grillo had eight birdies, including five in a row from the 10th through the 14th. That stretched ended with their second bogey at 15, but their six-under 66 kept them in a strong position going into Sunday’s four-ball final round.

“Emiliano’s partner showed up today,” said McDowell. “I felt a little bit more comfortable.”

He admitted the duo were disappointed with their “slow finish” — after their bogey at 15 they parred the last three — but said they went into the final round with plenty of confidence.

“We both played really well,” McDowell said. “We look forward to getting out there tomorrow. I think if we continue to play this way we have a chance.”

Kizzire and Harman had five birdies, a bogey and an eagle in their 66.

Americans Kevin Na and Bryson DeChambeau, who shared the overnight lead, slipped a shot off the pace after a 67 that included seven birdies and two bogeys.

Having joined the leading group, Woodland and Hoffman said they would keep the pedal down in Sunday’s best ball round.

“Best ball you’ve got to be aggressive,” Woodland said, with Hoffman adding: “Two looks at birdie on every hole is the most important thing.”

The tournament featuring 12 two-person teams is the 30th edition of the unofficial event founded by Greg Norman.