Pernice takes a one-shot lead at AT&T National

By Steve Ginsburg

BETHESDA, Maryland (Reuters) - American Tom Pernice held off a late charge by compatriot Steve Stricker to secure a one-shot lead after the third round of the AT&T National at Congressional Country Club on Saturday.

The 48-year-old Pernice, bidding for his third career title, fired a one-under-par 69 to go 10-under after three rounds on a hot and humid day in suburban Washington, D.C.

"I really hit the ball pretty good, gave myself a lot of chances and I think going forward tomorrow, that's what I need to do," Pernice told reporters.

"I need to hole some putts and get some momentum going and go from there."

Pernice shot a seven-under 63 during the second round but while he played solidly on Saturday, much of the magic was missing. He had only two birdies and one bogey.

"The last 12 or 13 holes, I hit the ball really nice and gave myself a lot of opportunities, but just didn't hole any of the putts," he said. "My speed was a little bit off, which caused me to miss some. But all in all, I'm very happy."

Pernice jockeyed for the lead with Stricker before the soft-spoken Californian birdied the 437-yard par-four 17th to take a one-stroke lead heading into Sunday's final round.

The 41-year-old Stricker moved into a good position to challenge for victory with a sizzling four-under 66 on the challenging 7,255-yard course, site of the 2011 U.S. Open.