American Merrick stays one ahead on his maiden PGA Tour

A stroke in front of the chasing pack overnight, the 25-year-old fired a flawless two-under-par 68 on the El Camaleon course at the resort of Playa del Carmen on the Riviera Maya.

That left him at eight-under 132, one ahead of second-placed American Brian Gay, who carded a 67.

PGA Tour rookie David Lutterus of Australia was a further stroke back after shooting a 69 with American Steve Marino alone in fourth at four under, also after a 69.

Merrick, competing in his fifth Tour event of the season, was delighted with his display.

“I’m just hitting well and putting it well right now,” he told reporters. “I didn’t get in too much trouble today and, when I missed a green, I chipped it pretty close.

“It blew a little harder today but I felt great about the way I played. I missed a lot of birdie putts from eight to 15 feet.

“This is the reason why you play and you practise — to get the lead. I haven’t had the lead that many times in my career so it’s a great learning experience for me.”

Former world number one Nick Price of Zimbabwe returned a 68 to end the day six strokes off the pace, one ahead of double major winner John Daly (73).

The cut fell at four-over 144 with 75 players qualifying for the weekend. Among those missing out was course designer and former world number one Greg Norman of Australia.

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