Levin extends Phoenix Open lead

Little-known American Spencer Levin held his nerve over the tricky closing stretch to move six shots clear after Saturday's third round of the frost-delayed Phoenix Open in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The cigarette-puffing Levin recovered from a bogey at the 15th with a birdie at the brutal par-four 17th to card a three-under-par 68 on a glorious afternoon of dazzling sunshine at the TPC Scottsdale.

In pursuit of a maiden PGA Tour victory, the 27-year-old Californian posted a 17-under total of 196 to finish six strokes in front of world number six Webb Simpson, who also carded a 68.

Long-hitting American Bubba Watson was a further shot back at 10 under, a 67 putting him level with PGA Tour rookie John Huh (69).

However no one was able to get close to the pacesetting Levin who was five strokes in front when the frost-delayed second round was completed earlier in the day.

Phil Mickelson, winner of the Phoenix Open in 1996 and 2005, carded his best round of the week, a five-birdie 67 lifting him into a tie for 10th at eight under.