Golf: Steady Campbell in line for a big cheque

HILTON HEAD - New Zealand golfer Michael Campbell is well-placed to pocket his biggest cheque on the United States Tour heading to the final round of the Heritage of Golf tournsment in South Carolina.

Campbell recorded a third-round 69 on the Harbour Town course at Hilton Head to finish six strokes behind Fijian Vijay Singh, who led by two at 13 under.

Singh birdied the final two holes in a round of 67 to ease himself towards a third victory this year following earlier wins in Malaysia and Singapore.

He will start the final round seeking a first victory in the United States since last year's Augusta triumph.

"I would like to win," Singh said. "I am putting a lot of pressure on myself finishing well in a few events and not winning over here.

"It kind of takes a toll after a while, and the longer it takes, the harder it is to win.

"I would like to come out and finish the job over the last 18 holes, if I can."

Unheralded Jose Coceres, of Argentina, produced the best round of the day, a seven-under 64, to elbow his way into a share of second place at 11 under with American Billy Mayfair.

Four players are tied in fourth place at nine under, with a further three, including German Bernhard Langer, at eight under.

Campbell and Australian Greg Chalmers and American John Daly are among nine golfers in 11th place at seven under.

Campbell began his round at five under.

His only blemish was at the last when he found a greenside bunker from the middle of the fairway, taking a bogey.

Regrettably, Campbell failed to birdie any of the par fives, something he will need to capitalise on if he is to grab a big slice of the $US3.5 million ($8.75 million) prizemoney.

"I was pretty close to doing so well, with just one mistake," he said.

"But I didn't take advantage of the par fives.

"However, being just six shots behind, and 18 holes to play, means there is everything to play for on the last day.

"My intensity and enthusiasm has increased tenfold since Friday, and when I get sight of the lead, or a sniff of being in contention, I really enjoy that."

Campbell attributed a pep talk from his wife, Julie, for his sharp form reversal after a lacklustre opening round of 72.

"It's just amazing, because after my first round, I just wanted to go home and take a break for the game," he said.

"But I spoke to Julie and she said to just go out and have fun, and I did.

"I just had a more relaxed attitude towards the [second] round, and played better [he scored a 65].

"It's just amazing the way you can feel and the way you think.

"Everything was very positive and it was a good effort."

Fellow New Zealanders Frank Nobilo and Craig Perks missed the cut after both scoring one-over 143s.

- AGENCIES