Galven’s galvanised to raise his game with Syahiran and Danny close behind in final round

PETALING JAYA: Plenty of fireworks are expected when tournament leader Galven Green tees off with Syahiran Syakir and defending champion Danny Chia as they compete for honours in the last group and final round of the Tun Ahmad Sarji Trophy at Saujana Golf and Country Club today.

Galven, third overnight after a three-under 69, registered four birdies and an eagle against two bogeys for a four-under 68 in the second round yesterday.

With a two-day aggregate of 137, he is just one stroke ahead of another youngster Syahiran. A further stroke behind is Danny on 135.

Edven Ying and Hafiy Suhaili are the nearest challengers, lying in joint fourth position at even par 144. A total of 51 players made the cut for the final round in this event on the Toyota Tour, organised by Professional Golf Malaysia and delivered by MST Golf.

Galven had two birdies against two bogeys in his first nine but performed better after the turn, with an eagle-birdie-birdie effort on the 14th, 15th and 16th holes.

“Nice to be in this position. Didn’t make too many mistakes today although I could have played better in the first nine,” he said.

Winning the Alphard Cup at Kota Seriemas last year was Galven’s first professional victory and that has boosted his confidence. He felt his game has improved since and has narrowed his sights on winning today.

Syahiran’s performance was almost a mirror of the first round the previous day when he was six under until he bogeyed the last two holes.

He was coasting along nicely at four-under until bogeys at the 16th and 18th stopped his charge.

“I’m absolutely happy with my game from tee to green. Had plenty of looks at birdies but my putting wasn’t all that great. Bogey at the 16th came after my approach plugged into the greenside bunker.

‘‘But at the 18th I three putted from 12 feet. Still, I am definitely in contention and will be out for a good finish tomorrow.”

It was another tough day for the ladies. Defending champion Aretha Pan joined overnight leader Geraldine Wong at the top when she registered a three-over 75 while the latter carded a six-over 78 for a two-day aggregate of 149.