Reid leads Sorenstam by six shots at Nykredit Masters

text size

HELSINGOER, Denmark (AP) -- English rookie Melissa Reid eagled the last two holes for a 7-under 66 and took a six-shot lead over Annika Sorenstam going into the last round of the Nykredit Masters.

Reid, who finished runner-up twice on the Ladies European Tour this year, has a 36-hole total of 133. That's 13-under par on Simon's Golf Club course.

Sorenstam, making her last appearance in Europe as a pro golfer, shot a 68 Saturday and shared second with Martina Eberl of Germany (73).

Sorenstam, who started on the back nine, eagled the long 12th -- her third hole. She also had three birdies.

"Today was better," Sorenstam said. "I got off to a great start. I eagled my third hole and almost made a hole-in-one on my fifth. I played very, very well. I hit the last nine greens and I pretty much hit them all today.

"It could have been much lower but I was very happy to finish birdie, birdie. I've come from 10 behind so I know everything is possible. I just have to play some good golf and go from there."

The 37-year-old Hall of Famer from Sweden, winner of 10 majors and 72 LPGA titles, will retire at the end of the season to start a family and pursue business interests. Sorenstam has won three LPGA titles this season.

Reid, who turns 21 later this month, made three consecutive birdies from the 6th, bogeyed the 14th and finished with a birdie and two eagles on the last three holes.

After hitting a brilliant approach to eight feet on the 16th and converting the birdie putt, Reid rolled in a 35-footer for eagle on the 17th. She then chipped in from the front of the green on the 18th, another long par-5 hole.

"I hit the ball much better today," said Reid, the LET rookie leader. "I've had a couple of good weeks practice and I was just trying to keep it simple."

Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved.