Furyk, McDowell tied for lead at U.S. Open; Woods falls

Posted: Jun 16, 2012 10:21 PM by CNN

SAN FRANCISCO - Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell and American Jim Furyk were tied for the lead after the third round at Olympic Club, paving the way for a Sunday showdown of the former U.S. Open champions.

McDowell won the tournament in 2010, Furyk won it in 2003, and both made moves Saturday to grab their second U.S. Open titles.

Both golfers ended play Saturday at 1-under to top the leaderboard.

"I am really happy that I stuck with my game plan and actually enjoyed myself for the first time this week," McDowell told reporters. "This golf course has been such a test, and I was proud of myself, the way I played today."

One golfer who may not have been happy with his play at the San Francisco golf course was Tiger Woods.

Woods began the day tied for the lead with Furyk and David Toms, but then faded quickly.

Woods bogeyed four of his first eight holes Saturday and never could get his play on track Saturday.

Woods shot a 75 Saturday and will start play Sunday at 4-over.

"It was just a tough day on the greens," Woods said. "It was just a tough day, all day."

Some had thought this tournament would be Woods' time to regain his dominant play of the past.

He came to the U.S. Open after a triumphant win at the Memorial Tournament on June 3 that had some believing that his inconsistent play was over.

Phil Mickelson shot a 71 Saturday but was still 8-over for the tournament, far away from the leaders.