American golfers Tom Pernice, Jr. and Jeff Overton share the lead headed into the third round of the AT&T National tournament in Bethesda, Maryland. As VOA's David Byrd reports, both players are nine-under-par headed into Saturday's third round.

Tom Pernice, Jr. during the second round of the AT&T National golf tournament at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Md., 04 Jul 2008

Pernice had the round of the day, a seven-under-par 63 on the Congressional Country Club Course. Overton shot a five-under-par 65 Friday and both players are nine-under-par 131 for the tournament. After his round, Pernice said his iron play was the key to his low score.

"You know, I am obviously very happy with the round. You don't hit that many iron shots that end up that close and that really makes it nice. But I'm thrilled at my position. Shooting a 63, seven-under-par around this golf course is pretty special," he said.

Americans Anthony Kim and Cliff Kresge are tied for third place, three strokes off the lead at six-under-par (134). Australian Rod Pampling, compatriot Nick O'Hern and first round leader Steve Marino of the United States are part of a large group of players four strokes off the pace at five-under-par (135).

Defending champion K.J. Choi of South Korea shot a one-over-par 71 Friday and is part of a large group of players at one-under-par (139) for the tournament.

Rain and thunderstorms delayed play for more than 90 minutes Friday with the final groups finishing just before dark.