Gordon Manson says that self-belief is the key as he enters the final round of the Acorn Jersey Open at La Moye Golf Club just two shots off Ian Woosnam’s lead.
The Austrian, who carded a five under second round 67 for an eight under total, joins Welshman Woosnam and Ireland’s Des Smyth - who shares second place with Manson and Englishman Gary Wolstenholme - in the final group on Sunday.
Manson claimed his maiden European Senior Tour title last year at the Swiss Seniors Open and so he knows what it will take to win in Jersey.
“I’ve been in this position before, and I won in Switzerland last year,” said the Scotland-born player. “I’ve got confidence in my ability. If I relax and trust in myself and my ability, then I’ve got a chance.
“I felt good on the first tee yesterday, and I started with a lovely seven iron which gave me some good feelings.
“I was striking putts very well, swinging the club nicely. I started to feel relaxed and the birdies started to come along.
“I rolled in some putts from ten and 12 feet and kept my cool. It was a nice day, just walking around and playing golf. I trusted myself in what I was doing.”
The 56 year old also took tips from his playing partner on Friday, Paul Wesselingh, as he worked his way around Jersey links.
He said: “I shot four under on the back nine, there was a bit of wind there but I was hitting all the greens and giving myself chances.
“I picked up on Paul’s technique on the greens. He’s a good putter and has a positive mood to his stroke, which I feel I have to improve on a bit more. It’s just about getting a bit more speed and getting the ball to the hole.”
