It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Coetzee in Saturday’s third round at the Blair Atholl Golf and Equestrian Estate to hold the lead going into the final round. 

His front nine was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring two bogeys, a double bogey, and three birdies within the first six holes. But the experienced campaigner showed his class when it mattered most, steadying himself after the turn. A crucial birdie on the 12th and a brilliant eagle on the 13th helped him sign off with a three-under-par 69.

With his long game not quite firing, Coetzee leaned heavily on his short game to stay in contention.

“My short game had to be good today. I felt a little bit all over the show. There were stretches where I felt like I was right where I wanted to be, playing the kind of golf I could play forever. But that feeling never lasts long. Overall, I’m happy – my short game saved me today,” Coetzee admitted.

The 37-year-old drew on his years of experience to keep his composure, producing moments of brilliance when he needed them most. “There were a few times today where you just have to convince yourself you’re going to make it. You almost have to force that feeling,” he added.

Jacques Kruyswijk. Photo: Sunshine Tour

Fresh off his 15th Sunshine Tour title at the Serengeti Playoffs last week, and still finding his rhythm after an extended injury layoff, Coetzee is keeping things simple heading into Sunday’s showdown. “I just want to do the same things. I’m just excited to be playing golf again. This is where I want to be,” he said.

Hot on his heels, Kruyswijk surged into contention with a blistering seven-under-par 65, finishing the day on 13-under. Jonathan Broomhead isn’t far behind at 12-under, while Michael Hollick also made a late charge to get to 11-under.

With a tightly bunched leaderboard and the Tour Championship title on the line, Sunday promises to be an electrifying finish at Serengeti.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg