IRELAND’S Seamus Power charged up the leaderboard on Friday at TPC Deere Run.
The Waterford ace carded a bogey-free, five-under 66 to move into a tie for 13th.
The Irishman is just three strokes behind leader Doug Ghim,Cameron Champ and Kevin Roy, who lead the way on -12.
Power followed up his solid opening round of 67 on Day 1 in Illinois to give himself an opportunity heading into the weekend.
Starting on the back nine, Power surged through the front with four birdies before adding one more on the back-nine.
It’s a welcome position for him after a injury stricken year, he’s suffered with persistent back and hip problems.
The injuries even forced him to withdraw from the Canadian Open after nine holes, and again after 18 holes during U.S. Open qualifying.
He’ll need a strong showing at the weekend to keep alive his chances of clinching a spot at Royal Portrush for The Open.
The John Deere Classic is part of the Open Qualifying Series and offers up to five spots into the Open Championship field to its top finishers who aren’t already exempt.
Defending champ Davis Thompson and Max Homa are among the five players within one shot of the lead going into the weekend.
They’re joined by Mexico Open winner Brian Campbell, David Lipsky and Emiliano Grillo were tied for second.
All the third-round action is underway live on Sky Sports.
