Rayong: Two spectacular eagles propelled Jakraphan Premsirigorn to a convincing 14-point lead over Justin Raphael Quiban of the Philippines after the third round of the 3.45-million-baht Thailand Mixed Stableford Challenge at the par-73 St Andrews 2000 yesterday.
Despite a sluggish start which saw him make a bogey, the Thai-Hong Kong player fired four birdies, two eagles on the 11th and 18th holes interspersed by a bogey on the 17th hole to gain 16 points for an outstanding overall score of 47 points.
"Actually it was tough due to the windy conditions. I got off a bit stiff, maybe because I was a bit nervous being the leader," said the 31-year-old Jakraphan, who is affectionately known as "Johnny" to his family and friends.
With a substantial 14-point lead over Quiban, who trailed behind with 33 points, Jakraphan will enter the final round with great confidence. Today's final presents an opportunity for him to secure a significant victory, the first since his triumph in the All Thailand Golf Tour in Khon Kaen six years ago.
"I should feel more comfortable tomorrow, but I'm still as determined as usual. I will strive to maintain focus on my game, particularly on the greens, in order to create opportunities for birdies. I can't afford to be too relaxed," he said.
Quiban secured a commendable 11 points with a remarkable display of seven birdies that was offset by three bogeys.
Sitting 16 points off the lead was Newport Laparojkit, who had a bogey free round where he shot four birdies for 8 points and a total of 31.