Tiger Woods' chances of a fourth Masters title are over after a mediocre third round of 75. The world number one got off to a bad start with a bogey at the first - and subsequent bogeys at the sixth and ninth further dented his chances.
A seven at the 13th effectively ended his chances, although he rallied with birdies at the 15th and 17th.
He will start his final round on three over par and questions will continue to be asked about the 28-year-old's form.
He has not won a major title for nearly two years and his inability to consistently find fairways is costing him on a regular basis.
"The middle part of back nine was awfully tough, that took a lot out of me" said Woods.
 |  It's frustrating because I'm so close to putting it together |
"Tomorrow, I need to put the ball in the fairway and give myself 18 chances. Hopefully I can putt better than I did today."
Woods refused to blame his problems on injury, saying the knee that required surgery 18 months ago is "100%".
Playing partner Jay Haas remained in contention after a level par round of 72.
A bogey at the 18th cost the 50-year-old a better score, but he is sure to receive strong support when he starts his fourth round on Sunday.
Another PGA tour veteran, 42-year-old Kirk Triplett, enjoyed an excellent round of 69 which featured a run of three consecutive birdies from the seventh onwards.
He will begin his final round on two under par.
Another American who shot 69 was Stewart Cink, who will begin the final day of the Masters on level par.
MMIX
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