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Sunday experience gives me the edge - Mickelson

Phil Mickelson sparked into the life on the back nine on Saturday © Getty Images

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ESPN is providing live commentary and updates during all four days of The Masters from Augusta National - along with comprehensive news views and opinions.

Masters 2012: Second round report

Phil Mickelson is looking forward to another memorable Masters Sunday after shooting himself into contention with a round of 66 on Saturday.

The left-hander, a three-time winner at the tournament already in his career, positioned himself just a shot behind leader Peter Hanson after a blistering back nine - as he made an eagle (at the par-five 13th) and four birdies on the way to a competitive total at eight-under.

Set to partner the inexperienced Swede - it is just Hanson's second Masters - in the final round, Mickelson denied nerves would not be a problem but acknowledged that experience of the occasion may just give him an edge.

"I think that having played Sundays, with these certain pin positions - that will allow me to feel a little bit more comfortable," Mickelson said. "But it's the final round of the Masters and you're always nervous - at least I know I am.

"But there is nothing better than teeing off in the last group at Augusta on Sunday."

After starting his round with nine straight pars it looked like the expected move from the American would not be forthcoming, before birdies at both ten and 12 set him on his way. But it was an eagle - thanks to a curling 25-foot putt - at the 13th that really sparked him and the watching galleries into life.

A birdie from behind the green at the par-five 15th was equally impressive, but Mickelson pinpointed his play at the 13th as the turning point in his day.

"The eagle on 13 was the big one because it really gave me some momentum," he noted. "It really allowed me to shoot up the leaderboard and have a chance.

"Fifteen, yes, was also nice. I hit five-iron and it flew 235 and went over the back of the green. It was a very hard shot but I got fortunate that I had a good lie and the green was softer than it has been and I was able to get it close and make birdie."

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