Surprised Tiger fires impressive 64 to take 2-stroke Zozo C’ship lead

A surprised Tiger Woods fired a dazzling 64 for a two-stroke lead over Gary Woodland at the rain-marred Zozo Championship in Tokyo on Saturday. “I’m surprised that I was able to score as well as I have,” admitted Woods, who is playing his first tournament for two months after having arthroscopic knee surgery.

“It usually that takes a little bit of time. I’ve been able to strike my irons pretty well this week so far and that’s been nice.”

The 15-time major winner lit up Narashino Country Club course, which was closed to spectators for safety after soaking up more than six inches (150mm) of rain during Friday’s washout, with a stunning performance

“I had made a couple putts today and I went to put my hand up and I’m like, don’t put your hand up, there’s no one clapping,” said Woods.

Chasing a record-equalling 82nd PGA Tour victory, Woods staged a comeback from bogeying his opening three holes to shoot an enchanting 64 with nine birdies in Thursday’s first round.

He started more steadily on Saturday and was one-under at the turn before switching on the afterburners. “Hit the ball a little bit better than I did (Thursday),” Woods said. “Let’s hope that trend continues.”

Three birdies in four holes from the 10th took him alongside clubhouse leader Woodland at 10-under.

Woods kept his foot down. The US Masters champion smoked a massive drive down the long par-four 17th and his pinpoint approach from 154 yards left him a simple two-footer to take the solo lead.

He saw a 20-foot eagle putt slip by at the par-five 18th but tapped in for his seventh birdie of the round and a 36-hole 12-under par total of 128.

US Open champion and overnight co-leader Woodland said he had to dig deep for his 66 to keep in touch with Woods.

“It was a grind all day,” said the 35 year-old. “I didn’t have my best stuff today. Fortunately I made three big putts there on 16, 17 and 18 which was awesome.” Friday’s postponed round finally began at 10am Saturday on a weather-ravaged course with bright sunshine helping to dry the turf.

A pond to the left of the 10th fairway had expanded into a lake, forcing officials to move the tee forward, and in a trice a 376-yard par four became a 140-yard par four.

Agencies