Willett hits front in Cologne

Published on 24/06/2012 02:21

England’s Danny Willett will chase a maiden European Tour win today as he begins the final round of the BMW International Open with a one-shot lead in Cologne.

Willett carded a three-under 69 to move one shot clear of fellow Englishman Chris Wood and overnight leader Joel Sjoholm, who surrendered his advantage with four bogeys on the opening nine holes.

It might have been better for Willett but he, too, had his share of trouble in difficult conditions, with three bogeys – including one on the 18th – trimming his lead.

“I got the ball under pretty good control,” Willett told europeantour.com. “The wind was whipping around a bit, but I drove the ball great which makes it a lot easier.”

Sjoholm recovered from that rough start with a pair of birdies on the back nine, and at least left the course happy.

“I was in danger of a terrible finish, and instead I actually made two good pars out of nowhere,” he said. “So it feels good, and I’m real excited for tomorrow. It’s going to be a really, really great day because I really love this place.”

Scots Steven O’Hara and Stephen Gallacher were on four under, along with compatriot David Drysdale.

O’Hara had a 71, while Gallacher signed for a 72. Drysdale fell back with a 73. Marc Warren was a shot behind his three countrymen.

Ireland’s Paul McGinley had been in a share of second, but six bogeys condemned him to a score of 77 and sent him tumbling into a tie for 27th place.