Thatcher holds lead in Florida

American Roland Thatcher retained his four-shot lead despite a poor finish to his third round at the PGA Tour Children's Miracle Network Classic near Lake Buena Vista in Florida.

The 33-year-old, chasing both his first title on the tour and his card for next season, held a comfortable midway lead after an unblemished, nine-under-par 63 on Friday.

After starting with a bogey, he strengthened his position with six birdies between the fourth and 14th holes, only to give three of those shots back in a six-five finish.

A two-under-par 70 still left him four clear of nearest pursuer Chris Stroud, who managed three birdies on the day before also finishing with a bogey five.

Four players - Spencer Levin, Brett Wetterich, Robert Garrigus and Brian Gay - shared third place a further shot back, with Levin's bogey-free 67 the pick of their rounds today.

Steve Marino shot the best round of the day, his 65 containing eight birdies and the seemingly obligatory closing bogey.