Tim Wilkinson slips, still in strong position

New Zealand golfer Tim Wilkinson remains within range of a sizeable pay cheque after the third round of the $US6.4 million ($NZ8.7 million) Northern Trust Open PGA tournament.

The Palmerston North left-hander, who was fourth through two rain-delayed rounds, slipped to a share of eighth when his third round was curtailed by poor light today. He had completed 15 holes.

Wilkinson sits seven shots behind runaway American leader Steve Stricker, who is 14-under with four holes remaining in his round at the Riviera Country Club.

However, the other leaders are no further than two shots clear of the New Zealander, who carded birdies on his first, fourth and 13th holes today but shot bogeys on the second and 12th.

Luke Donald finished his round at 5-under 66 just before the siren sounded and was the clubhouse leader at 9-under 204. Andres Romero, playing in the final group with Stricker and 36-hole leader Dustin Johnson, also was at 9 under.

George McNeill shot a 66 and was at 8-under 205.

The tournament caught a huge break with the weather. A storm system off the California coast managed to dodge Riviera in the afternoon, leaving mostly sunny conditions and allowing for enough play that the tournament is expected to end on Sunday.

- AP