Hideki Matsuyama roars back into contention as Scottie Scheffler leads in Augusta

AUGUSTA: Japanese golfer Hideki Matsuyama's never-say-die attitude has now put him in the hunt for potentially more golfing glory at the Augusta National as the defending champion fired a superb 3-under 69 to share second place with three others, and lie five strokes behind world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler of the US, who seized control of the tournament with a 67 on Friday.

On a brutal second day, where the gusting winds made conditions tricky, only 13 players broke par, with Scheffler, who has won three of his last five PGA Tour tournaments, becoming the sixth player to hold a five-shot lead through 36 holes in Masters history with his 8-under 136 total over two days.

First-round leader Sungjae Im of South Korea slipped back after a 74 to be bunched on 141 with Matsuyama, Charl Schwartzel of South Africa (69) and Shane Lowry of Ireland (68), while Tiger Woods maintained his fairy-tale comeback from a serious leg injury following a 74 to stand on 145 in tied 19th.

Only three golfers — Woods (2001, 2002), Nick Faldo (1989, 1990) and Jack Nicklaus (1965, 1966) — have successfully defended their titles in the Masters and Matsuyama has shown tremendous fighting spirit, first by overcoming his lingering injury woes, and then producing some wonderful golf to raise Asia's hopes once more.

Following an opening 72 on Thursday, he used a fine start with three birdies over his first six holes to haul himself into contention. The 30-year-old, who became Asia's second male major champion 12 months ago, missed several opportunities to go even lower, lipping out on the eighth and missing makeable opportunities in his closing two holes.

Whenever he got into trouble, the eight-time PGA Tour winner, who is currently fourth on the FedEx Cup standings, showed some deft touches to make par saves on Hole Nos. 12, 13 and 14 following a combination of missed greens and an errant shot into Rae's Creek at the par-5 13th hole.

"I think I played well. Justin (Thomas), who I was playing alongside, easily shot 5-under and he gave me a boost which resulted in my good performance," said Matsuyama. "My goal is to play good golf. But it's easier said than done. I will make sure to prepare myself well (for the weekend)."

Two-time PGA Tour winner, Im stayed strong in tough conditions to remain in the hunt for a first major victory following three birdies against five bogeys. IANS

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