Golf-Recuperating Mickelson signs off at Torrey Pines on a high

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

SAN DIEGO, California, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Phil Mickelson was delighted to end his week at the Buick Invitational on a high after starting it with three days in bed.

The world number two, who had been confined to bed rest and antibiotics by his doctor after struggling with shortness of breath and fatigue, tied for sixth place after shooting a one-under-par 71 on Sunday.

"I feel like I'm where I wanted to be starting the week," American Mickelson told reporters after finishing at six-under 282, 13 strokes behind runaway winner Tiger Woods at Torrey Pines.

"I'm a week behind on my game just because I haven't been able to practise but, as the week wore on, I started to play better and I started to feel better.

"These two rounds under par on the weekend give me a little bit of momentum heading into the Phoenix Open next week," he added, referring to his 68-71 finish.

"I'm really looking forward to Phoenix. I feel like my game is starting to get sharp. I've got a few subtle adjustments I'll work on the next few days but I think that next week could be a good week."

Mickelson, a three-times winner at Torrey Pines, posted one of only seven sub-scores in Sunday's final round as the gusting winds strengthened in the afternoon.

He birdied three of the first six holes, bogeyed seven, 14 and 15 and picked up one more shot at the par-five last where he reached the green in two and two-putted.