Hillier stumbles then regains lead at Dubai Desert Classic
Daniel Hillier – file photo courtesy of DP World Tour
Despite dropping three shots in succession through the middle of his closing nine holes, New Zealand’s Daniel Hillier leads the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at the Emirates Golf Club into tonight’s final round.
Hillier began round three one behind Scotland’s Ewen Ferguson but took the lead immediately when he birdied the first two holes and went further ahead when he birdied the 5th.
Hillier bogeyed the 6th but another birdie at the 10th had him in front by four.
Tyrell Hatton eagled the 2nd hole when he drove the green at the short par 4 and holed from 8 feet but he would struggle to the turn before a final nine rush saw him take a share of the lead at the 16th before heading into round 4 just one behind Hillier.
Hillier recovered from his stumble through holes 13,14 and 15 with birdies at his final two holes to re-establish his lead over Hatton in the US$9 million event, a cheque of US$1.62 million awaiting if he is to hold on to his one-shot lead over Hatton and two over Ferguson.
Ryan Fox and England’s Laurie Canter at 9 under are just four from the lead and not without hope, in fact, nine players are within five of the lead and subject to the play of Hillier and Hatton all may feel they have a chance to win this significant event.
