Patrick Reed showcased his exceptional skills at the LIV Golf Dallas, shooting a 4-under 68 on Saturday to secure a three-stroke lead. This performance brings him closer to his first victory on the Saudi-funded tour. Reed, who was tied for the first-round lead with his 4Aces teammate Harold Varner III after an opening 67, managed six birdies and two bogeys to reach 9-under 135 at Maridoe Golf Club.

Reed, the 2018 Masters champion with nine PGA Tour victories, is in a strong position heading into the final round. Paul Casey (67) and Abraham Ancer (69) are tied for second, while Varner shot a 72 to drop into a tie for third at 5 under with Tyrrell Hatton (65), Richard Bland (69), and David Puig (69).

Bryson DeChambeau, a Dallas resident and SMU alumnus, had his second straight 72. The 4Aces team, featuring Reed and Varner, holds a four-stroke lead in the team competition.

Brooks Koepka, who withdrew on Friday due to illness after smashing his driver on the par-4 ninth, did not return on Saturday. According to LIV rules, he could have returned to play this weekend, with his scores counting toward the team standings only. Koepka was replaced by reserve player Luis Carrera for the remainder of the first round.

This report includes information from The Associated Press and Field Level Media.