Erik van Rooyen will once again have the chance to win a maiden European Tour title after an exquisite end to his third round at the Scandinavian Invitation, writes WADE PRETORIUS.
Henrik Stenson and Matthew Fitzpatrick were expected to hog the headlines at Hills Golf & Sports Club – the home-town hero against the top-ranked player in the field. The Swede fresh off a 62 and Fitzpatrick looking to extend his two-shot lead.
But 18 holes later and the Englishman is in the bunch one back, largely thanks to an eagle to finish, and Stenson is three behind. In that bunch is Dean Burmester, who bounced back from his 72 on Friday with a round 10 strokes better. Saturday’s 62 was the round of the day as he added his name to near dozen within four of the lead.
Five back is Zander Lombard, who fired a 64. And despite it not matching Burmester for being a clean card, it did help him move 19 places in the right direction. Both know they have the firepower to repeat the feats tomorrow which could have them crowned king in viking country.
The leader? A familiar name. Not only to South African audiences but the European Tour following in general. Even if he hasn’t had a win yet, Van Rooyen is fast becoming a force at this level. He’s had his chances – probably more than he would’ve like – to enter the elite circle and now, he’s given himself another massive opportunity. And only after a breathtaking inward nine.
After his outward stretch, the story was very different. Two bogeys and three birdies and a background part of the developing story of the chasing pack.
Hours later, he leads alone. How? Birdies at 13, 14, 15, 17 and 18.
Van Rooyen is 19th in the Race to Dubai. He has banked €980,885 this season and has Major experience under his belt.
He’s been in this position before and Sunday certainly will present a new challenge with the quality behind him in the field. An afternoon of intrigue awaits.
