The Barclays 2012: Sergio Garcia Holds 1-Shot Lead Over Nick Watney, Tiger Woods Out Of Contention

The final pairing is now on the course at Bethpage Black for the final round of The Barclays, and at 9-under, Sergio Garcia holds a one-shot lead over playing partner Nick Watney. Garcia opened the day with a bogey at the first hole to drop a shot and Watney followed that up with a birdie on the second to square things up. The precocious Spaniard did, however, manage a par at the par-3 third hole, which he has bogeyed each of the first three rounds and had given him trouble throughout his career. Garcia was in good spirits after the par, facetiously pumping his fist and joking with his caddie about the par.

Sergio did miss an excellent opportunity at the fifth hole as his birdie putt danced on the the lip of the cup but did not drop. In a scenario where he would typically walk off the green with exasperation, Garcia once again departed to the next tee with a smile. He’d re-take the lead just moments later when Watney missed a short par putt to drop back to 8-under. If Sergio can keep his attitude and putter correct, he could very well walk away with the win for the second straight week.

Brandt Snedeker holds sole possession of third at 7-under, starting his day at 1-under through the first five holes. Snedeker is playing for so much more than The Barclays, as the steady putter is squarely on the bubble for one of Davis Love III’s captain’s picks for the Ryder Cup. Snedeker has expressed his strong desire to make the team, but he’s likely in a fierce battle with Rickie Fowler for the 12th and final spot. All summer he’s demonstrated his ability to get hot with his most steady club, the putter, and post a low number so he can absolutely chase down the leaders over the final 13 holes.

Tiger Woods has continued his even-par round. The FedEx Cup standings leader did not make a par on the first five holes as he went wild off the tee. He’s made a couple big par saves since, including a huge putt at No. 8. But at 4-under, he’s out of contention as he plays his final seven holes.

For live Barclays leaderboard, visit Golf.com.

Stay with this StoryStream for news and updates throughout the week at Bethpage. For all your golf news during the 2012 FedEx Cup, visit SB Nation’s golf hub.