Patrick Rodgers is looking to play at The Masters for the first time in his career as well as securing his first title since joining the PGA Tour in 2015; watch coverage on Sunday from 6pm on Sky Sports Golf
Last Updated: 02/04/23 9:11am
Patrick Rodgers has a one-shot lead going into the final round of the Valero Texas Open as he looks to secure his first PGA Tour title and a Masters spot.
Rodgers shot one-under-par 71 to sit at 12 under at the Oaks Course as he posted three birdies but bogeyed the par-four sixth and par-five 18th holes to finish on a down note.
“I think we all know what’s at stake with a win out here,” Rodgers said. “I haven’t gotten the job done in my career, but it’s quite a thrill. This is why I play, why I compete and I can’t wait to get out there tomorrow.”
Rodgers, 30, is making his 235th Tour start. He has led events after 54 holes four times and has three second-place finishes.
“There’s a lot of guys chasing and great players out here,” Rodgers said.
“Obviously, there’s no better place to be than to have an advantage, but it’s going to take a great round in order to get it done.”
One shot back is 2019 Texas Valero Open champion Corey Conners of Canada, who carded a 69 with seven birdies, two bogeys and a double bogey at the par-four sixth hole.
“I’ve been working hard over the last number of years to try to get back in the winner’s circle and give myself some opportunities and feel like this is a great opportunity here,” Conners said. “I love this golf course and feel really comfortable out here. Yeah, it’s going to be a fun battle, but I’ll be giving it my all.”
Matt Kuchar (nine under) is alone in third after his three-under 69, while Sam Stevens (68) and Chris Kirk (69) are tied for fourth at eight under.
Ireland’s Padraig Harrington, 51, is among six golfers tied for sixth at seven under after posting a 68. The three-time major champion could become the third-oldest tournament winner in PGA Tour history should he triumph on Sunday.
Former Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama (68 on Saturday) is among six golfers tied for 12th at six under.
Defending champion JJ Spaun is tied for 30th at three under after his 70. Rickie Fowler, among a group of players who must win the Texas Open in order to qualify for next week’s Masters, is tied for 43rd at two under after his 71.
The second round was suspended due to darkness on Friday and completed Saturday with the cut at even par.
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