Niemann Holds Sole West Virginia Lad

Joaquin Niemann has opened up a two-shot lead heading into the final round of A Military Tribute at the Greenbrier.

World number 84 Niemann shared the lead at the half-way stage of the West Virginia tournament but has managed to build a two-stroke lead with 18 holes remaining at The Greenbrier.

The 20-year-old Chilean made three birdies and one bogey for a two-under-par round of 68 to move onto -15, two shots clear of American trio Ricky Werenski, Nate Lashley and Robby Shelton.

Speaking after Saturday’s performance, Niemann, whose previous two results in this event read T29-T5, says he enjoys the course and is looking forward to Sunday.

“I just feel like I’m almost a member here,” he told the PGA Tour website. “I just like being out here. Always when you play on a course that you know already it helps a lot. I think this is the course I have played more on tour.

“I’m just really happy the way I’ve been playing. This course is really good for me.” US duo Adam Long and Scottie Scheffler are in a tie for fifth on -12, three shots off the pace, while fellow Americans Harris English and Joseph Bramlett are a further stroke behind.