Aug25 Saturday Dutch Open
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England’s David Carter stayed in contention for his first European Tour title in nearly a decade after his 1-over 71 helped him maintain a two-shot lead at the Dutch Open on Saturday.
Carter was joined at the top by compatriot Ross Fisher and New Zealand’s Steve Alker at the end of the third round. Fisher, chasing his first win after two years on Tour, had four birdies on his first eight holes, finishing with a 2-under 68. Alker had a 69, and the the trio is at 9-under 201 after 54 holes.
“I know I’m ready to win and I will win, whether that’s this week, next week or somewhere down the line,” said Fisher. “I know I’ve got the game to do it.”
Carter had birdies on the 16th and 17th before bogeying his final hole. He said he was still hopeful of being at the top of the leaderboard after Sunday’s final.
“The wind was from a completely different direction today and threw me on a few holes but I’m still in with a chance,” he said.
German veteran Bernhard Langer posted a 67 to remain four shots behind, while defending champion Simon Dyson revived his hopes with a 66 to go 4 under.
Ireland’s David Higgins carded a second straight 68 to tie Phillip Price of Wales, France’s Thomas Levet and local favorite Joost Luiten in fourth place.
Former British Open champion Paul Lawrie (69) is tied in eighth at 6 under with Stephen Gallacher (66), John Bickerton (69) and Alexander Noren (72).