 Verplank shares a lead with Flesch |
Scott Verplank fired a blistering round of 62 to share the lead of the Las Vegas Invitational on Thursday. The American joined compatriot Steve Flesch, on 17-under-par for the tournament, two shots ahead of Charles Howell III.
Tim Herron, who also carded a 10-under 62, is three strokes off the pace.
"I made a lot of putts on the back nine and capitalised on my chances," Flesch said.
After starting his round on the back nine, the 39-year-old picked up shots at the 12th and 13th holes before reeling off five birdies in a row from the 15th.
"I made some nice putts and I hit some nice putts that didn't go in.
"If you have a perfect lie in the fairway with a sand wedge, you know you can do yourself some good by hitting it close and making the birdie putt."
Verplank, who won the 1985 Western Open as an amateur, has made the cut in 20 of 23 events this season but has not had a top-10 finish since the US Open in June.
World number 11 Phil Mickelson put himself back in contention with a seven-under round of 64.
But Britain's Darren Clarke saw his bid for the title falter, when he could only card a 71.
MMIX
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