Webb Simpson shot 5-under-par 68 and tied defending champion Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth for the lead heading into the final round of the Hyundai Tournament of Champions on the Plantation Course at Kapalua.
The 28-year-old Simpson will be trying to win for the fifth time in his PGA Tour career, after capturing the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in Las Vegas last October for his first victory since the 2012 U.S. Open at the Olympic Club in San Francisco.
“It was really good,” said Simpson, who carded five birdies in the last 10 holes in round three, when his only bogey came at No. 7. “I’m really starting to feel comfortable with some of the things I have been working on and was able to take advantage of the birdie holes, especially on the back nine.
“(Tomorrow), I have to stay patient because if you don’t get it going early, there are still plenty of birdie chances on the back nine. The scores are pretty good, but it’s still tough out there.”
Johnson, who had a tap-in eagle putt on the ninth hole after a brilliant shot from 211 yards, also played his last 10 holes in 5-under en route to a 69, barely missing a downhill 15-foot birdie putt on the final hole that would have given him sole possession of the lead.
Spieth, Rookie of the Year on the PGA Tour in 2013, also recorded a 69 that included two birdies in the last five holes, and sank a tricky eight-foot putt to save par on the 18th hole.
Zach Johnson, who held a three-stroke lead after 36 holes, struggled to a 74 that included a lone birdie at No. 5 and was two strokes back in solo fourth.
PGA champion Jason Dufner shot 69 and was tied for fifth with Gary Woodland, who had a 67, Brandt Snedeker, who came in with a 69, and Kevin Streelman, who posted a 70.
Adam Scott, No. 2 in the World Golf Rankings, shot 69 and remained in striking distance, four shots back in a tie for ninth.
