Mickelson's Magic Gives Him Masters Lead

With his most theatrical flair, Phil Mickelson tried to take control of the Masters midway through the back nine Sunday afternoon, making a go-ahead birdie at the famous par-3 12th hole then following it with a birdie from the trees at the 13th to lead Anthony Kim and Lee Westwood by two strokes with fiv eholes remaining.

Mickelson's lead could have been larger but he missed a five-foot eagle putt at the 13th after a remarkable shot from the trees over the creek fronting the 13th green.

Kim was trying to match Mickelson with his electric play. Kim surged into contention on the back nine, keyed by an eagle at the 15th and a birdie at No. 16.

K.J. Choi had been tied for the lead but a bogey at the 13th cost him.

Tiger Woods hopes finally ended at the 14th hole where he three-putted for a bogey, missing a tap-in for a par, leaving him six behind Mickelson, who is chasing his third green jacket.

Mickelson's wife, Amy, who is battling breast cancer, is attending her first PGA Tour event in 11 months with their three children this week.