Lucas Herbert Dominates as Cameron Smith Falters in Stunning Open Drama
Lucas Herbert is setting the pace for the Stonehaven Cup after a dramatic second-round collapse from LIV Golf teammate Cameron Smith.
Herbert showcased resilience at Kingston Heath on Friday, recovering from an early hiccup to secure a commanding three-shot lead by the end of his second round.
Smith, who had been just one stroke behind after a stellar five-under-par front nine, saw his fortunes take a shocking turn. The 2022 British Open champion faltered under pressure, eventually trailing Herbert by eight strokes.
The trouble began when officials placed Smith and his playing partner, Australian PGA champion Elvis Smylie, on the shot clock for slow play. Smith’s struggles included three bogeys and a double-bogey on the par-four 16th after taking a penalty for an unplayable lie caused by a wayward drive. His back nine unravelled with a 41, following his brilliant outward 31, leading to an even-par 72 finish.
Smylie, unaffected by the clock-shot warning, excelled with a remarkable 64, catapulting him to nine under and tied for third. His performance has been nothing short of a comeback story, rebounding from three over through seven holes on Thursday to card 13 birdies and remain in contention for a rare golden double at Australia’s premier tournaments.
Defending champion Joaquín Niemann also made a charge, posting a 66 at Victoria. The Chilean LIV Golf star recorded six birdies in a seven-hole stretch and added two more late in his round, climbing to four under for the championship.
Min Woo Lee, Niemann’s playing partner, sits at three under after recovering from a double-bogey setback on the 17th in a round of 71.
With Herbert commanding the lead and challengers surging, the stage is set for an exciting weekend at the Stonehaven Cup.
