The first pairing of the day perhaps set the scene for what was to come later, with Tommy Armour shooting 80 and playing partner Troy Matteson carding an 81.

With the chance of a weather stoppage it had been thought the tee-times would be brought forward, but, as one rules official commented, the forecast for Monday is fine.

In other words, they are not particularly bothered if the event does not finish on Sunday.

American Paul Goydos was the overnight leader at seven under, one clear of compatriot Kenny Perry.

Sergio Garcia was probably the only European with a chance, three shots back. The Spaniard would love to become just the second European winner, joining Sandy Lyle (1987) and the conditions were probably in his favour.

That was because Garcia was easily the best player in the field from tee to green through 54 holes, missing only nine greens in regulation.

Next best in that category was Jonathan Byrd, who had missed 14 greens.

Goydos, by the way, is the master of self-deprecation. At 43, he has only two victories on the tour, the latter coming at last year’s Sony Open in Hawaii, nearly 11 years after his only previous success.

Goydos joked at the time that he liked to win once every decade and on Saturday, when asked whether he had ever held the 54-hole lead, he said: “No, but I’ve only been on tour 16 years.”

But if he could hold on and win here, Goydos would suddenly come into contention for this year’s American Ryder Cup team.

His dry wit might be just what the American team needs.