(Rome, June 5 2004) Ana-Belen Sanchez from Spain takes a two shot lead heading into the final round of the €275,000 BMW Ladies Italian Open at Parco di Roma GC, but she will face a stiff challenge as local favourite Diana Luna birdied three of her last six holes to close the gap on the Spaniard.
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| Sanchez – one slip, but leads by two |
“But I got more confident after the birdie at the 13th and I felt stronger and stronger. Tomorrow, my plan is to simply play my own game. I won’t be watching what Ana-Belen does and whatever happens, happens.”
Round of the day belonged to German rookie Anja Monke, who burst though the field with a five under par 67 to jump from tied 44th into a tie for seventh place.
With Luna aiming to become the first Italian to win her national title – in front of a partisan crowd – and both Eberl and Sanchez looking to snare their maiden victories, the pressure will be on in the final group, leaving the opportunity for those behind to make a challenge.
Jo Head, a cool, calm and collected character might be the likely candidate for a surprise overtaking manoeuvre and with her experience gained from playing regularly on the LPGA Tour, the twin sister of fellow professional Samantha is aware she has a chance.
“You just never know what might happen tomorrow,” said Head. “I quite like the position I am in and I think I’d prefer to come from behind.”
