Graeme McDowell is on target to end his season on a winning note after he and partner Gary Woodland moved to within three shots on the lead in the Franklin Templeton Shootout.
McDowell and Woodland, close neighbours at Lake Nona in Orlando, combined to produce a nine-under par 63 on the Tiburon course in suburban Naples, Florida.
The second day of the three round event featured a ‘Greensomes’ alternate shot format and with McDowell capitalising on a 330-yard drive by Woodland and then hole a 48-yard wedge shot for eagle at the four 13th hole.
McDowell then holed a 10-foot birdie putt at the last.
“I fed off a couple of Gary Woodland special driving tee shots today, especially there at 13, and that was the key today,” said McDowell.
“I managed to nip it nicely and it was nice to see that one going in. We needed a little something to happen at that stage of the round as the putters had gone a little cold and that kick-started some good play.
“Gary’s driver is our secret weapon, and it’s great to have the opportunity to feed off his tee shots.
The combination of Graeme McDowell and Gary Woodland move into second place at 22-under par in the Frankin Templeton Shootout. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
“But then now that Gary and I are in this position I’m really looking forward to tomorrow’s final round and any time you’ve got an opportunity to win anything, and especially in this fun format, you have to be excited and I am excited.
“But then the way Gary has battled through his back pain from about 50% fit yesterday to around 75% today is commendable.
“And while it is a team’s event to win tomorrow would the icing on the cake for my season.
“But it promises to be a very volatile final day in the ‘better ball’ format as there is a lot of qualities players who can make their presence felt.”
McDowell’s season has been highlighted already by his successful defence of his French Open title along with being a member of the victorious European Ryder Cup team.
Australia’s Jason Day and American Cameron Triangle continue the lead the event adding an eight-under par tally to move to 25-under par and with McDowell and Woodland one clear of defending champions Harris English and Matt Kuchar.
Graeme McDowell and Gary Woodland looking to end 2014 on a victory note. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
