Immelman bounces back into winning position

Those who wondered how long Trevor Immelman would have to wait for another chance to win on the US Tour now have their answer – seven days.

The South African, beaten by Jim Furyk at the Wachovia Championship after bogeying the final hole and then the first play-off hole, was tied with Australian Adam Scott with a round to go in the Byron Nelson Championship in Texas.

Immelman fired a six-under-par 64 to climb into the hunt and things then got even better for him after he finished as Scott, third last week, played the last seven holes in three over.

That put them both on the 11 under mark of 199, with American Brett Wetterich one behind and Britain’s Luke Donald tied for eighth on six under.

“I take 100% positive from last week’s play-off loss,” stated Immelman.

“Of course, I wouldn’t be a competitor if I didn’t say I wasn’t disappointed to lose, but I came as close as I’ve ever come against one of the best fields of the year on a stellar course.

“Every Sunday is for somebody. I can’t get too far ahead of myself, but it would be a dream come true to win, especially getting a trophy from a legend like Mr Nelson.

“What always amazed me about the man is that his dream was to make enough money to buy his ranch. He did it and quit.

“That’s just a measure of the man, but it’s a big part of why we’re playing for this much money and fame and we owe them a great deal of gratitude.

“ think I put way too much pressure on myself when I played in America before. It was like I knew I needed to hurry up and… and get my card and it was just too rushed.

“Being exempt this year (thanks to Gary Player giving him a wild card into the Presidents Cup) has allowed me to set a schedule, pace myself and have a relaxed mental approach.

“Winning on the PGA Tour is probably the ultimate for any professional, simply because you’re playing against the strongest fields week in and week out. I just have to stay patient and keep doing the same things I’ve done in the past.”

Scott is the younger by a year at 25, but is seeking his fifth victory in America.