Tony C. McCray Blog: Matt Wallace Leads Italian Open Through 54

Sunday, October 15, 2017

Matt Wallace Leads Italian Open Through 54

England’s Matt Wallace will attempt to hold off local favorite Francesco Molinari as the Italian Open wraps up on Sunday.

Wallace has a two-stroke lead over Molinari and fellow Brit Tyrrell Hatton.

“I’d say we’re probably only halfway there, halfway done, because Sunday is a different day,” Wallace said. “I’m going to go out, fight as hard as I can and hopefully be standing here with the trophy tomorrow. Like I said yesterday and the day before, I’m playing some really nice stuff.”

Molinari is trying to become the first player ever to win the event twice in a row. His birdie putt on No. 17 got him within two strokes of the lead.

“I’m very pleased. I played very well,” Molinari said. “I think the game has been improving throughout the week, which is important. Obviously I know it’s going to be tough tomorrow but I’m in a good position. It won’t be easy for anyone, but I’m happy to be in the mix. I’m just looking forward to the last day of such a great event, with great crowds.”

Hatton came alive early in the round, striking six birdies on the front nine including four in a row.

“I played really nicely all day to be honest,” said Hatton. “I holed quite a few putts on the front nine, and sadly, I just couldn’t make the most of my opportunities on the back nine. So you know, it was a game of two halves on the greens but I’m in a good position going into tomorrow.”