Dubai: Three-time Desert Classic winner Ernie Els has everything going his way as he chases a record fourth crown at the Emirates Golf Club on Sunday.
"There was a bit of rust and I've managed to shake it off over the past three days," Els said after shooting a third-round 65 for a total of 11-under-par.
The 'Big Easy' from South Africa was all poise as he warmed up with two birdies on the third and fifth holes. Then on the back nine he found his rhythm, claiming an eagle on the 10th and birdies on the 11th, 13th and 15th and 17th to end the three days with a total of 205.
That performance left him ruing missed chances on Friday.
"That second round was a bit disappointing and I feel I turned a 68 into a 72. Luckily, I have managed to get that rust off and the striking of the ball has got better too," Els said.
Despite playing in his first tournament of the season, the South African's affinity for Dubai stands in his favour.
"I love the course. I have won three times here and I have been coming here for a long time now. Every time the course is always in great shape," Els noted.
Go the distance
Despite his second-round disappointment, Els is confident he can go the distance today. "I am fresh, it's so early in the year and I feel so comfortable here as I have a lot of friends," Els said.
The last tournament he played was his home event in South Africa in mid-December. "I took six weeks off and this is the first event of the season," Els said.
With everything going in his favour, he hopes to cash in on the advantage for the final onslaught for the title.
"Much depends on the weather and then I will have to manage the pressure cooker situation.
"Obviously, Tiger whenever he plays, he's the man to beat. I feel like I'm swinging better now than I have been all week. So start thinking about it tomorrow," Els said.
