Golf: Howard tames cup course

New Zealand, bolstered by the brilliance of Tina Howard, lie one shot behind leaders Australia going into the final round of the Queen Sirikit Cup women's international in Malaysia today.

The New Zealanders shot the day's lowest score, an eight-under 136, to jump from fifth to a share of second with Chinese Taipei.

Australia lead on 279, with New Zealand and Chinese Taipei on 280, Korea on 281 and Japan a further three shots behind.

Taupo's Howard led the way with the day's low round, a six-under 66. Fellow Bay of Plenty player Brenda Ormsby added a two-under 70. North Shore's Anita Boon had the non-counting score, an even-par 72 at the A Famosa Resort course.

Howard bagged four birdies and an eagle in an outstanding display that saw her jump to joint individual leader with Hong Chin Huei (Chinese Taipei) on seven-under 137.

New Zealand coach Geoff Smart said the cooler conditions in the morning proved the key to a big start by the New Zealanders.

"There was a lot more breeze, and while that made for difficult playing conditions, it made things much cooler earlier," Smart said.

"We got a top start, with all the players under par, which really gave them a lift.

"All three hit the ball superbly and with more luck on the greens we could have been well clear."

Howard was six under after 10 holes in a delightful display.

Ormsby also struck the ball superbly to be four under after 13 before dropping shots on the 15th and 18th. She could not take full advantage of several birdie chances on the way home.

Boon had a much improved day from tee to green, but mixed five birdies with four three-putts that spoiled a strong showing.

The New Zealanders fired 13 birdies and an eagle between them yesterday.

"It all has gone to plan so far," Smart said. "We wanted a solid start and not to blow what we achieved on the first day. Today was moving day and we achieved that really well.

"The aim was to shoot no more than 138 and we shot 136. I think we will aim at that sort of figure tomorrow, and see where that leaves us.

"We will be delighted if the breeze gets up again tomorrow - the heat is certainly a real factor."

New Zealand have won the title three times - in Australia (1984), Hong Kong (1989) and as hosts at Paraparaumu Beach in 1999.

Australia are seeking three wins in a row, a feat they achieved from 1981 to 1983. Only four nations have won the title - Australia, New Zealand, Korea and Japan.

- NZPA