Cromwell, Conn. — Bogey-free and four strokes in front after 36 holes at the Buick Championship, Justin Rose went over par on No. 37. He kept his poise, though, and was still one stroke in front Saturday after three rounds.
Rose missed a 14-foot par putt on the opening hole and scrambled all day for an even-par 70 that had him at 12-under 198. It was just enough to hold off Ben Curtis, his playing partner and friend.
Curtis, the 2003 British Open champion, shot a 3-under 67. His only mistake was driving into the water on No. 17, costing him a share of the lead.
"We've both worked hard on our games this year, and it's starting to pay off," Rose said. "It was nice playing with him today."
Curtis, the first-round co-leader, is winless since that British Open. He began to turn around his game last month when he finished third at the Western Open and then contended early at the PGA Championship with a first-round 67 at Baltusrol for a share of the lead.
Four golfers, including Corey Pavin (67), who came within two strokes of the lead midway through his round, were at 202. That group also included defending champion Woody Austin (65), Jerry Kelly (67) and Tjaart van der Walt (68).
Rose, who has four international victories, is looking for his first triumph since joining the PGA Tour last year. This is the first time on tour he led after 54 holes.
Darren Stiles began the day at even par and made the biggest jump, shooting a 7-under 63 and was five strokes back.
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