Matsuyama seeks big Sunday push with another top 20 finish in sight

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A more settled Hideki Matsuyama is determined to finish his Masters Tournament campaign as strongly as possible after surging to a tie for 28th place with his week's best one-under-par 71 on Saturday.

The 2021 champion traded four birdies against three bogeys at Augusta National Golf Club to reach the 54-hole mark at five-over 221, propelling him 22 places from where he began the day

It was a commendable fightback by Matsumaya considering his disastrous opening 76 and having barely progressed into the weekend rounds on the cut line.

Matsuyama believes the weakening wind compared to the first two days has made the playing conditions more manageable.

"Conditions were calmer compared to yesterday, but the wind was still present. I felt I played well in the front nine," said the 32-year-old ace.

"With the wind expected to persist, I want to make the best of it and push for a strong finish."

Matsuyama sits only three shots behind the top 20, adding anticipation to whether he can make a late push to break into that position.

With an impressive track record of finishing in the top 20 in eight of his last nine appearances, Matsuyama aims to maintain his consistent form.

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The penultimate day saw world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler emerge as the sole leader despite enduring a turbulent day, carding a 71 to edge one shot ahead of fellow American Colin Morikawa.

Scheffler, vying for his second Green Jacket following his 2022 victory, showcased a varied scorecard featuring an eagle, four birdies, three bogeys, and a double bogey

"I think I'll have a better understanding of what the morning is like tomorrow. But, yeah, proud of how I played today. It was a good fight out there. The golf course was extremely challenging," said the in-form Scheffler, who won twice in his last PGA TOUR starts.

"The greens were very firm, and very fast, and it was extremely difficult again today. So probably looking for more of the same tomorrow."