Lexi Thompson maintains lead

Lexi Thompson has held her lead at the ANA Inspiration at the 54–hole mark. She leads Suzann Pettersen by two–strokes and has a large chasing pack within five shots of her lead. 

Thompson is  trying to secure her second major championship and first win of the 2017 season.  She made six birdies to finish at  five under par, and managed to hit 18 of 18 greens in regulation. 

This is the second time she has held the 54–hole lead, as she held it previously in 2014 when she went on to win.

“Yeah, well, that experience always helps me out, but I'm just going to focus on tomorrow, focus on one shot at a time, relax out there between shots, and just focus on doing my routine, visualizing my shots out there,” said Thompson.

“I just love this golf course. I get to hit a lot of drivers, and it just sets up well,” said Thompson. “There's a few doglegs left, which helps me out. I love being here. It's just absolutely beautiful, and it's always in great shape for us.”

Suzann Pettersen had two bogeys and six birdies to post a four under 68 in her third round.

“I think I've always said since the first time I saw this place it really fits my eye. I'm driving the ball well, and that's a major key on this golf course, and if you do, you can kind of attack it, as well,” said Pettersen.

“So far, so good. I've got a big job to do tomorrow. I mean, the leaderboard is packed behind me, as well. You've got to expect to go out there and shoot low. There's a lot at stake, but I'm all in for it.”

Mi Jung Hur, Minjee Lee, Inbee Park and So Yeon Ryu are three back of Thompson at 10-under par.

Charley Hull shot a one–under 71 to finish the day T11 with seven other players, including World No 1. Lydia Ko.

Melissa Reid is T58 after she posted a two–over 74.

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