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Ko pushes ahead to lead LPGA event

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Lydia Ko has grabbed the lead at the LPGA event in Hawaii.
Camera IconLydia Ko has grabbed the lead at the LPGA event in Hawaii. Credit: AP

Lydia Ko has again put herself in position for her first win in three years by taking a one-stroke lead into the final round of the LPGA's Lotte Championship.

New Zealander Ko carded a a 7-under 65 to be 21 under through three rounds at Kapolei Golf Club, which has offered little resistance this week even in windy conditions.

Nelly Korda, who went back and forth with Ko for the lead throughout the third round, carded a 63 and was one shot back.

Yuka Saso, a 19-year-old from the Philippines playing on a sponsor's exemption, followed her back-to-back 64s with a 71 and was four shots shy of Ko in third.

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Among the big movers were Leona Maguire, who was five shots back after a 65, and Amy Yang, who shot 64 and was another shot behind.

Best of the Australian contingent is Hannah Green, whose 66 on moving day go her to 13 under and a share of ninth.

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Her countrywoman Su Oh matched her six-under round to be tied-40th at 9 under.

Ko pushed ahead of Korda one last time by rolling in the last of her seven birdies on the par-4 18th.

"It wasn't a flying start compared to the other two days, but I stayed patient," Ko said.

"I had lots of looks but they just didn't drop.

"When it's that kind of day, you just have to be committed and do a good job on the next one and not be too worried.

"The last three days have been so much fun. That's my mindset tomorrow and I'll see where it gets me the end of the day."

Ko, a 23-year-old former world No.1, has 16 LPGA victories and two majors but has slumped since her last win in 2018, although she has been close this year with runner-up finishes twice.

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