Mickelson & Els make early moves in FedEx Cup Barclays, but this is Sabbatini's trophy

HARRISON, N.Y. (Aug 26, 2007) - Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els excited the crowd early in the final round of the FedEx Cup’s first event.

There was Mickleson, having vowed to play like the old go-for-everything, brains-be-damned Phil, birdieing the first three holes this afternoon at Westchester Country Club to move to 10-under. There was Els, hitting his first shot of the day within six inches of the cup on par-3 first, and adding another birdie on No. 2 to move to 11-under.

But Mickelson and Els have both made the turn onto the much tougher back nine, having gained no more ground. Instead it’s a surging Rory Sabbatini who’s ready to grab the trophy and the lead from his beloved absent friend Tiger Woods in the Cup standings. Sabbatini makes the turn at 14-under, after going four under on the front. Steve Stricker is still tied for the lead, but he’s played a very shaky par front nine and no one expects him to hold up when the holes get tougher.

If Sabbatini can win, it will be the greatest thing that could have happened for PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem’s FedEx dreams. To find out the reason why, go to the front of WorldGolf.com Monday morning for full tournament coverage and analysis.