Stricker retains five-shot lead in Hawaii

Steve Stricker produced a strong finish to his third round to ensure he will take a five-shot lead into today’s final round of the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii.

The Wisconsin-born 44-year-old, who was 15 under par and five strokes clear of Webb Simpson at tournament’s midway stage following a stunning 10-under-par 63 on Saturday, struggled to continue his momentum in the early part of his third round on Sunday and was level par through 14 holes.

That meant his advantage had dwindled to just one shot, but four birdies on his final four holes propelled him back ahead of the pack as he carded a four-under-par 69 to move to 19 under overall.

Defending champion Jonathan Byrd and Scotland’s Martin Laird both signed for 67s and were tied for second along with Simpson (69).

Bryce Molder and Kevin Na were eight shots off the pace on 11 under after rounds of 67 and 71 respectively on the Plantation Course at Kapalua.