Tom Watson takes lead at Turnberry

The veteran golfer Tom Watson has taken a one-stroke lead over England's Ross Fisher at the 138th Open at Turnberry, scene of his greatest triumph 32 years ago. The 59-year-old said yesterday that he believes he can achieve a sixth triumph on the course. "It is going to be something special if I do what I intend to do," Watson said yesterday. "Who knows? It might happen."

Ross Fisher, who has said he will leave the course to fly home immediately should his wife Joanne Fisher go into labour with their first child, yesterday shot 70 to become the tournament favourite.  The Australian Mathew Goggin is one shot behind on 69.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING:Bill Elliott, the Guardian: "It also helps that he is happy again after a few sad years during which his long-time marriage fell apart and it does not hurt that he cut back a bit on the booze some years ago either. This is the sort of baggage that any man of a certain age could carry round with him. It is called life and Watson has lived a full one to this point."

Nick Greenslade, the Times: "The five-times Open champion began the day tied for the lead with fellow American Steve Marino. However, he had dropped three shots by the time he reached the 16th and his improbable challenge appeared to be fading. Yet, just as he had done on Friday, Watson rattled in a long putt for birdie and then picked up a further shot at the next hole. A par at the 18th gave him a round of 71 and put him on four under par for the tournament. If he wins today, he would become the oldest player in the modern era to win a major championship, easily topping Julius Boros, who won the 1968 US PGA title at the age of 48." ·