Liebenberg and Barnard share healthy Big Easy lead ahead of final round

Louis Liebenberg backed up his opening 68 with a second-round 69 on Wednesday to get his total to seven-under for the week, tying the lead with Charl Barnard ahead of the final round at Krugersdorp Golf Club.

Liebenberg’s second round was characterised by four birdies and a solitary drop.

“It was more of the same, I guess,” said Liebenberg, referring to how his second round was any different to his first. “Compared to yesterday, maybe I hit a few more greens today and it felt a bit less stressful here and there. Three under today; solid round of golf.”

With a healthy three-shot lead ahead of the final round, the Glenvista Country Club professional is fully aware of what he needs to do to get over the line.

“It’s going to have to be more of the same for me,” he said when asked how he will approach the final round. “I just have to stick to my process and do what I need to do; make the small choices and enjoy it. To be in contention for a tournament win always feels good.”

Barnard fired in a near-perfect 68 to get to seven-under for the week and his round consisted of five birdies and one bogey.

“The front nine was fun,” noted Barnard. “Back nine, I only hit two greens on the back nine. It was a bit of a stress; bit of up-and-downing, but overall, a fun day.”

Barnard, a Sunshine Tour rookie, finds himself in contention for his first Betway Big Easy Tour title and the former GolfRSA national squad member is relishing the opportunity.

“I think it’s a good practice for the upcoming events, being in contention,” he said. “So, yeah, I am looking forward to tomorrow.”

Keegan Mclachlan and Jordan Wessels tie third on a tournament total  of four under par while Wandre Snyman and Daniel Cronje share fifth on three-under. Travis Procter, Ruben van der Berg and amateur Minjun Heo tie seventh on two-under and trail by five.

The Betway Big Easy Tour is the Sunshine Tour’s feeder circuit and enjoys the support of the legendary Ernie Els, among other patrons.