Bland blasts his way into NSW Open contention
BY Anthony Powter | Von Nida Tour | 2005 New South Wales Open | Round Two | 18 Nov 2005
Whilst Michael Wright held onto his lead at the Proton NSW Open for a second day with a 67, a close eye will be on rookie Adam Bland, who sits only three shots behind him. Bland shot the round of the day with a 66 and is primed to make an impression during the business end of the tournament. Bland is not just playing for the tournament trophy but also the much sought after Von Nida Order of Merit and the associated trappings that will follow.
It was an impressive display of control golf by Bland given the afternoon conditions. Gusty winds had dried the Liverpool greens. Landing on the fairway presented a challenge for all players but Bland coped.
“I just played consistent all day. I tried to just keep it in play and just hope the putter worked. The last nine holes were tricky with the breeze and it was hard to tell which way it was coming. Club selection was hard especially on the par 3’s. I hooked one over the back on the 4th for my only bogey, but generally I plan to go out tomorrow and play the same as I’ve played the last few days and hopefully finish it off.”
Bland’s play was impressive. When he was in trouble he escaped without any damage to his score. His composure and standard of play was more akin to a season professional as opposed to a rookie.
Sitting on Bland’s heels is another talent that has emerged from the Von Nida Tour this season, Brad McIntosh. McIntosh was out of the gates with speed, only to let a few go during the middle stages of his round when the conditions were tough.
His aggressive approach to the Liverpool layout impressed the strong crowd. The locals have openly adopted him as this year’s hero – the result of his amateur Pennant playing days with Liverpool Golf Club. On the 359 metre 9th hole, McIntosh let rip with his driver to land his ball in the green side bunker – sheer strength, aggression and judging from his body language; determination. It is frightening to watch but entertaining. The gallery appreciated the display as they urged McIntosh to give it “a rip” John Daley style when he was on the tee.
McIntosh obliged to their delight.
McIntosh certainly is the crowd favorite and if he produces another 59 like he did during the Queensland PGA, he will be hard to beat on a layout he knows well and one which he is not afraid to take on.
To say Liverpool played easy would be misleading and a number of large second round scores were carded by players who would rather forget their day. Former world number one amateur Michael Sim will not be around for the weekend but we are sure to be hearing about him no doubt this summer.
The serious end of the tournament is now upon the field – moving day. Opportunities will be taken and whilst Wright has his nose in front, it is still anyone’s tournament; and the players know it.
Photo – Anthony Powter
