Posted April 14, 2019, 3:47 pm
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Reed finishes strong as defending champ

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Keith Mitchell and Patrick Reed approach the tenth tee during the final round of the Masters Tournament. [ANDREW DAVIS TUCKER/FOR THE AUGUSTA CHRONICLE]

Patrick Reed played his best golf of the week Sunday at the Masters, but still had to relinquish his green jacket.

He shot 69 at Augusta National, his lowest total in four rounds to finish 2-under for the tournament. Due to the tee time change, his group teed off on the second nine, a rarity for any Masters.

“It was different, he said. “We were able to play the back nine with less wind, so that was an advantage.”

He, like most others in his situation, added that it didn't really change his game plan.

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Reed started the day hot, with birdies on Nos. 13, 15, 16 and 17. He closed out the second nine with a bogey on 18. He shot even-par following the turn, with a bogey on No. 3 and a 20-foot birdie putt on No. 8.

He hit 10 fairways and greens in regulation in the round. Despite the results, Reed was free and easy about how he felt as he came off the No. 9 green.

“It was a blast defending,” he said. “I wish it went better, but it got better as the tournament went on. The drive quality was there, same with the irons. I just needed to tighten up my misses.”

Reed finishes strong as defending champ

From AugustaChronicle.com »

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