Neither the demanding layout nor the magnitude of the occasion could get the better of Jeev Milkha Singh [Images] who brought home a level-par 72 to be tied 23rd after the penultimate round at the US Masters.

The 2006 Asian Tour's number one fired three birdies against an equal number of bogeys on a wet and chilly day at the Augusta National for a three-day total of one-over 217 to lie just outside the top-20.

• Images: Jeev blazes at Augusta

With the top-16 finishers and ties guaranteed of a return trip to Augusta National next year, the Indian is now hoping to finish with an under-par final round to ensure a return ticket to the first Major of the year.

"If I can shoot in the red tomorrow, I hope it gets me in the top-16. That would be great if I can do that," said Jeev, who remains on course to better his last year's tied 37th finish.

Playing alongside reigning US Open champion Angel Cabrera, Jeev continued to show his liking for the demanding Augusta National layout with another steady performance, outscoring his playing partner by one.

Jeev turned in 35 with birdies on the second and seventh holes, courtesy putts from eight and 20 feet respectively, against a dropped shot on the fourth.

However, he was disappointed with bogeys on the 11th and 14th spoiling his card. Jeev also missed several birdie chances on the lightning quick greens.

"It could have been a better round. I had a few birdie chances out there and let them go. I put myself in a good position after the 13th where I was one under. Then I hit a good drive on 14 and hit a bad iron shot. That bogey was not needed," he said.

Jeev also felt that he was not consistent enough.

"I'm not getting any momentum. I make a birdie and then I'm letting it go. I can only try and I just feel I have to stay patient out there and be smart and aggressive in a way too.

"I expected under par today, I was feeling good but 72 is not bad. Tomorrow if I can shoot in the red, I'll be happy. I want to finish under par here."

With each passing round at Augusta National, Jeev said he is coming to grips with the course.

"Last year I learnt a lot. I feel I can manage myself really well on the course. It suits my game and sets up for me. You have to be patient and have good management.

"It's mentally more tiring than physically. You have to be sharp all the time. You get bad breaks and you can lose it. If you lose it, it'll bite you. It takes quite a bit out of you. It's my favourite Major and hopefully I can improve on this and come back."