Syme surges into the lead at Celtic Manor with 63

Scotland’s Connor Syme will go in search of a maiden European Tour title after carding an eight-under-par 63 to take a one-stroke lead into the final day of the Celtic Classic at Celtic Manor.

The 25year-old from Kirkcaldy started the third round four shots behind halfway leader Sam Horsfield, but quickly made a move with three birdies on the front nine. He then carded five birdies on the back nine as he went on to sign for a 15 under par total, one stroke ahead of Horsfield.

Horsfield, who is seeking his second title since the European Tour season resumed after winning the Hero Open a fortnight ago, parred the first eight holes before his first birdie of the day on the ninth. Two gains followed at 14 and 16 as, like Syme, he returned a blemish-free card.

Sweden’s Sebastian Soderberg carded a 65 to move up to third place on 13 under, one stroke ahead of Thomas Detry, Andrew Johnston and Adrian Meronk. Thomas Pieters, the first round leader, shot 70 to share seventh place with Callum Shinkwin.

Syme, who turned pro in 2017, and won his 2019-20 tour card at qualifying school, said: “I just played lovely. in what were great conditions for scoring. I got off to a decent start to get to three under through nine, which was a nice base to build on. I holed some decent putts coming in, so I’m delight3ed to be in the position I’m in.

“I felt like I played well in Austria, the first event back, and I made the cut at the Hero Open, and have gradually getting my form back. I found something a little bit in my swing and I’m just rolling with that really.”

Horsfield, who signed for a third round 68, said: “I stayed really calm out there, and felt like I was playing really well. I hit a lot of greens and was just waiting for my putter to get hot. I made a few nice putts, but didn’t take advantage of the easy holes on the back nine, but I’m happy with the position I’m in.”

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