Koch stays in pole position in Turnberry

Sweden’s Carin Koch maintained her joint overnight lead after the third round of the Weetabix Women’s British Open at Turnberry…

Sweden’s Carin Koch maintained her joint overnight lead after the third round of the Weetabix Women’s British Open at Turnberry in Scotland today.

Koch was joint top with Candie Kung at the halfway stage but the Taiwan golfer was replaced by Jennifer Rosales from the Phillipines, who is 12-under alongside Koch.

"I would love to win this championship," explained Koch who closed with a birdie at the last to complete her 68. "I have only won once in Europe and once in the US, so to win here on a beautiful course...I can't think of anything better."

Rosales had made all the running earlier in the day to claim the clubhouse lead with a fine seven-under par 65. "I was just excited to come here and I tried all my shots today," said Rosales. "I really played well and it was a perfect round for me."

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The pair lead by two strokes from American Natalie Gulbis, who chipped in at the last hole to card a 67, and Spain's Paula Marti. Rookie American Beth Bauer is in the group a shot further back on nine under, which also includes two-time former British Open winner Karrie Webb.

Defending champion Se Ri Pak from Korea ensured she will be in the shake-up on the final day with a 69 to move within four shots of the leaders.

Leaders after third round
(par 72; GB and Ireland unless stated)

12 under
Carin Koch (Swe) 68
Jennifer Rosales (Phi) 65

10 under
Natalie Gulbis (US) 67
Paula Marti (Spa) 69

9 under
Karrie Webb (Aus) 70
Beth Bauer (US) 70
Michelle Ellis (Aus) 68
Tina Barrett (US) 70
Candie Kung (Tai) 71