Pacesetting McCarron avoids thoughts of Riviera redemption

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

PACIFIC PALISADES, California (Reuters) - Scott McCarron banished any thought of seeking Riviera redemption after charging two strokes clear in the Northern Trust Open second round on Friday.

Seven years after squandering a three-shot lead late in the final round at Riviera Country Club, the American fired a three-under-par 68 to take control with a 10-under total of 132.

While he has set his sights on a fourth PGA Tour title, McCarron has no intention of linking a triumph here this week to the bitter disappointment of 2002.

"You learn from your mistakes and I felt like I let that one slip away," said the 43-year-old Californian, whose love affair with Riviera began during his university days at nearby

UCLA.

"But that''s in the past so nothing to do about it now."

However, he still holds vivid memories of how he fell back into a tie for second, one stroke behind compatriot Len Mattiace, after leading by three with seven holes to play.

"I remember Len Mattiace hitting one of the greatest bunker shots I''ve ever seen to hole it on 12," McCarron told reporters. "He made a couple other great putts.

BAD TASTE

"I remember making bogey on 18, which really left a bad taste in my mouth. I''d like to have that over again.

"I think with some experience that I have now, I might play that shot a little differently."

This week, though, McCarron has relished playing good golf at one of his favorite venues.

"I love this golf course," he said after charging to the top of the leaderboard with five birdies and two bogeys. "I have a lot of friends and fraternity brothers following me and it feels good to play well."

Although he has not tasted victory since the 2001 BellSouth Classic, McCarron believes he will comfortably handle the lead going into the weekend.

"Once you win, you know how to win," he said. "I feel more comfortable near the lead or in the lead than I do trying to make a cut.  Continued...