Garcia seizes solo lead at The Barclays

FARMINGDALE, New York: Spain's Sergio Garcia held his own at demanding Bethpage Black Saturday, firing a two-under 69 to seize sole possession of the lead after three rounds of The Barclays.

Garcia, who shared the overnight lead with Nick Watney in the first event of the US PGA Tour's playoffs, had a 54-hole total of 10-under par 203, two strokes in front of Watney.

Garcia, who has the Ryder Cup in his sights after his victory in last week's Wyndham Championship, survived Bethpage's fast, slick greens which caused plenty of trouble for others, including Tiger Woods.

Woods appeared to be over the sore back that bothered him on Friday, but the 14-time major champion had four three-putts in a one-over par 72.

Garcia finished the day with five birdies and three bogeys.

Watney's five birdies were exactly balanced by five bogeys, the last a three-putt at 18.

Watney, had some consolation after making a 35-footer for a rare birdie at the par-three 17th.

Kevin Stadler shot up the leaderboard into third place with a bogey-free six-under 65 for 206.

Stadler had the advantage of playing early, before the greens dried out.

Brandt Snedeker carded a 68 to share fourth place with Bob Estes (72) on 207. (AFP)