Griffin, McGovern lead Keperra Bowl
IN: News | Queensland Mens | Keperra Bowl (2008) | Round Two | by Anthony Powter | 14 May 2008
Matthew Griffin and Rhys McGovern will take a one shot lead into the third round of the Keperra Bowl after closing the second round at 10-under-par. Griffin and McGovern are followed by Grant Scott, who fired the day’s low round with an exquisite 8-under 64,to rocket up the leaderboard to outright third position at 9-under-par.
Michael Foster, runner-up to Norwegian Anders Kristiansen in last month’s Australian Amateur Championship at Royal Adelaide, is equal fourth, at 9-under-par, after rounds of 66-71. Foster is joined by Jason Scrivener, the 2007 Australian Junior Champion, who is quickly establishing himself as one of our most promising talents.
Griffin will be seeking to secure his second major Australian amateur title, after he claimed the Mandurah Easter Amateur back in March.
“I had 5-under out there today, but felt like I could have had 9 or 10-under,” remarked Griffin, who is ranked 12th in the world under the Scratch Players ranking system.
“I feel you can take this course on and if you’re good with your wedge game, there’s plenty of birdies out there.”
Matt Jager obviously had his wedge game going today, he was able to rebound after a shocking opening round 77, with the second 6-under-par, 66, to be 1-under and T25th, nine shots behind the leaders and inside the cut, which came in at 4-over-par.
Jager was obviously pleased to make the turn around.
“I knew that I had to step up to the plate today and I was just able to take advantage of the par 5’s and get inside the cut.”
Rhys McGovern charged into contention with a late afternoon bogey free round of 66, building upon his opening 68, to deny Griffin the outright lead.
“I’m just looking to capitalise on this start,” said McGovern, who finished T3 at the Riversdale Cup.
“Another top-ten finish would be great. I’m a bit of a late developer, compared to all the young guns out here. It’s sure to be close over the next two rounds and if you can get your driving and wedge game on, you score well.”
With eight players within five strokes of the leaders, the Keperra Bowl remains an open affair. Those within striking distance, including Jason Scrivener, know the opportunity is still there to collect a maiden victory.
“This is a course where you can make up ground easily, so the tournament is anything but over,” remarked Scrivener. “Having said that, there’s plenty of hazards where players can get themselves into trouble and that will make the finish interesting for sure.”
