NORTHERN IRELAND’S STEPHANIE MEADOW is tied for third place at the US Women’s Open at Pinehurst after a third round 69 left her just four shots off the lead shared by Michelle Wie and Amy Yang.
The 22-year old is making her professional debut this week but has put together three solid rounds to sit on two-over heading into Sunday’s final round.
The Royal Portrush golfer is currently the only European in the top 20.
Five birdies in her first ten holes – including a chip in two at the Par 3 sixth hole – put Meadow in a strong position to challenge for the €430,000 winner’s cheque but bogeys on 11, 15 and 16 saw her slip back over par for the tournament.
However, the former University of Alabama golfer will still partner seven-time Major winner, American Juli Inkster, in Sunday’s penultimate group, well within catching distance of the leading pair.