Stenson Rolls to Two-Shot Lead in Scottish Open


Henrik Stenson fired a 6-under 66 to forge a two-stroke lead heading into the final round of the Scottish Open. The European Tour event is taking place at Castle Stuart Golf Links in Inverness.

The 37-year-old Swede, a seven-time winner in Europe, carded seven birdies and a bogey Saturday to reach 16-under 200, two shots clear of Denmark's JB Hansen (69), England's John Parry (66), South African Branden Grace (66) and American Phil Mickelson, who also shot 66.

Stenson, also a two-time winner on the PGA Tour - including the 2009 Players Championship, is happy with his play this week. "The way I played today, that was top-10 standard. It's as good as I have hit the ball all season," he told reporters.

Mickelson, the top-ranked player in the field at No. 8, carded six birdies, an eagle on the par-5 12th and two bogeys in the third round. He, too, was pleased with his performance. "I have kept the ball in play as well as I ever have (on links)," said the four-time major champion.

Three shots out of the lead are France's Raphael Jacquelin (65), American Peter Uihlein (70) and Gareth Maybin of Northern Ireland, who carded the low round of the day, an 8-under 64. Sharing ninth at 12-under 204 are Brits Matthew Southgate (71) and Simon Khan (70), and Italy's Lorenzo Gagli (70).

Thirty-six-hole leader Chris Doak of Scotland posted a 1-over 73 to drop into a tie for 12th at 205 with England's Paul Casey (68) and Tommy Fleetwood (68).

The shot of the day was made by Italy's Matteo Manassero, who aced the 216-yard eighth hole with a 3-iron hybrid.

For all the scores, visit http://www.europeantour.com/europeantour/season=2013/tournamentid=2013054/leaderboard/index.html.