Michiko Hattori, braving strong rain and wind, matched an even par on Saturday to grab a three-stroke lead going into the final round of the Kosaido Ladies Golf Cup in Chiba Prefecture.

Teeing off for the second round at the Chiba Kosaido Country Club one stroke off the lead, Hattori, who has won 14 tournaments, scattered four birdies against as many bogeys for a 36-hole total of 4-under 140.

"I was able to play better than I bargained for (today). Since I became too self-conscious last week, I will try to play not to lose my composure (tomorrow)," Hattori said.