Shin, Tabuena dispute TCC invT’l title

Micah Shin finished birdie-birdie Friday and overtook Miguel Tabuena at the helm of the TCC Invitational-Don Pocholo Razon Memorial Cup at The Country Club in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The 21-year-old American shot a five-under-par 67 for a 54-hole total of 212, toppling Tabuena, who bogeyed two of the last four holes for a 74 and 214.

The rest of the field, particularly first round leader Guido Van der Valk, yielded to the gusty winds and tough pin placements, leaving Shin and Tabuena to contend for the top P1.5 million purse.

The Dutchman had only two birdies against 6 bogeys, a double bogey and a triple bogey en route to an 81 and a 214 total, 11 shots off Shin, who honed his skills in Davao.

Shrugging off a triple-bogey 7 on an errant drive on No. 4, Shin played the last 12 holes in six-under and boosted his bid for a third pro title. He ruled the 2016 CAT Open at Luisita and an Asian Tour event last year.

Tabuena said he felt a slight cracking sound on his left shoulder after the second round and went straight to the hospital for a check-up.
“The doctor said I have pulled a rotator but said I could play on. I just need to rest after the tournament,” said Tabuena.

Tony Lascuña fired a 78 to lodge at fourth at 227, towing Jhonnel Ababa, who stumbled with a 77 for joint fifth with Frankie Miñoza (76), Elmer Salvador (78) and Keanu Jahns (82) at 229.

Jobim Carlos shot a 74 for joint ninth with American Nicolas Paez (76) and Jay Bayron (77) at 230.