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Mitsui Sumitomo VISA Taiheiyo Masters 2020
Chan Kim vs Ryosuke Kinoshita makes dramatic Saturday by both finishing with fabulous eagles
Both players made it in two to Par 5 18th, Chan Kim made a super shot which got him within 1-meter to the pin. On the other hand, Ryosuke had 15-meter challenge. But Ryosuke nailed it by making that 15-meter wining down slope putt. Chan Kim answered by safely making the "almost tap-in eagle" putt.
Both ended the round with total of 7 under Par and will head to the Final Round as co-leaders. They praised each other with "good luck" and made a fist touch.
"My front nine was frustrating since none of my putts went in. But finally, on 18th I was able to make it" said Ryosuke.
"Chan has the distance advantages so, I had to put pressure on him by making accurate iron shots from few yards behind him."
"I felt that Ryosuke will make that eagle putt", Chan replied. Both Chan and Ryosuke couldn't make the Saturday charge, even getting themselves several chances but couldn't just make it. Meanwhile an amateur Keita Nakajima made 8 birdies and a bogey on his first 10 holes, he took the lead away from Chan and Ryosuke. Other players got closer and closer, while Chan and Ryosuke started to stumble with bogies.
"We both had tough times with shots, but we managed to be strong mentally and didn't break down", recalled Chan.
Chan had to stay away from playing golf due to 2 weeks of restraint period, but he showed that it wouldn't affect last year's 4th Money Ranker that easily.
For Ryosuke on his 7th year as a Pro, will be seeking for his first ever victory. He would be under massive pressure tomorrow.
"I will try to enjoy the autumn leaves and beautiful Mt. Fuji scenery and forget that this is a tournament. Don't want to think so much about winning and relax. Also, I have a good luck charm given from my icon Toru Taniguchi. I was having hard time with my short game and Toru not only gave me tips, but he also gave me his wedge. Thanks to that wedge, I have been saving many Pars for past 3 rounds."