Golf: Wilkinson shares sixth at Soboba Classic

Tim Wilkinson. Photo / APN

Manawatu professional Tim Wilkinson has finished in a share of sixth place at the Soboba Golf Classic on the Nationwide Tour in California after a final round two under 69.

The Kiwi pro was only one shot back from the lead early in the round when he made birdies at the second and the sixth, but faded on the back nine with a bogey on 14 that hurt his title chances.

The left-hander finished three shots back from the 14-under total that led to a playoff between three players for the title.

American Ted Potter Junior won on the second hole of sudden death.

Wilkinson, who began the week in 79th place on the Nationwide Order of Merit, climbed 13 places to 66 and earned US$31,000 ($40,400).

He probably needs to win one of the final four events to return to the PGA Tour.

New Zealand No1 Danny Lee, who had a two under 69 in round one, was disqualified in round two when he was nine over after nine holes.

The former US Amateur champion remains at 14th in the standings as he looks to secure his PGA Tour card for the first time.

Tauranga professional Brad Iles, who is 104th on the Order of Merit, dropped from tied 19th to tied 31st after a three over 74 in the final round.

Josh Geary drops four places on the money list to 62 after he missed the cut with rounds of 73 and 74.

- APNZ