By Jay Greeson

AUGUSTA, Ga. — They will hold center stage later this afternoon, but Chad Campbell and Kenny Perry will hardly be at each other’s throats today at Augusta National Golf Club.

The Masters co-leaders at 9 under will play together in today’s final pairing, but each player praised the other after Friday’s second round.

Perry was high on Campbell, calling him a friend and good competitor.

Campbell’s praise was even more lofty.

“He’s an awesome player,” Campbell said. “He’s one of the best drivers there is out here; probably, possibly the best driver of the ball we have. Great player.

“He’s a great friend of mine, too, so I’m glad to see him playing well.”

The pair will tee off today at 2:45 p.m.

Tiger Woods, a four-time Masters champ who is seven back of the leaders, will tee off at 1:45.

For more on the Masters, check back to timesfreepress.com and read Sunday’s Sports section.