Golf: Molinari maintains Scottish Open lead

Sports

Golf: Molinari maintains Scottish Open lead

Close

Francesco Molinari maintained one stroke lead over his rivals at the Scottish Open.

15 July,2012 03:50 am

Francesco Molinari is heading to next weeks British Open in the best possible form after continuing to lead the Scottish Open at Castle Stuart course near Inverness.Molinari added a five under par 67 in continuing calm conditions and move to 17-under par and one clear of his rivals.Less than a week ago, the victorious 2010 Ryder Cup winning star, shot a blistering final round 64 to snare second place in the French Open in Versailles.Now the 29-year-old, London-based Italian is set to go one better and also join his older brother, Edoardo as winner of the premier Scottish title.Molinari earlier this year captured his third Tour victory in winning the Spanish Open.Denmarks Anders Hansen carded a seven under par 65 to move into second place on 16-under par and one clear of compatriot Soren Kjeldsen and Scotlands Marc Warren, who were among three players to post 64s.Kjeldsens round included four opening birdies while playing partner, Warren capped his round with by driving the front of the green at the shortened par four, 16th and then holed an 80-foot eagle putt.And four-time Major winning Phil Mickelson continues to improve heading to next weeks British Open with the visiting American adding a 65 to be sharing fifth place with three others on 14-under par.And while in Inverness, Mickelson played 13 holes on Friday night at nearby Nairn Golf Club, and the venue for last months Curtis Cup and host course for the 1999 Walker Cup that featured current world number one Luke Donald.However Mickelson confessed his visit had nothing to do with continued preparation for next weeks 141st British Open.Donald, the defending champion, carded a third day 68, to be among those tied in ninth place at 13-under par.