McIlroy Holds Tied Lead As He Nears Dubai Championship
Rory McIlroy recorded five under-par scores during his third round
Season Finale Saturday Leaderboard
-13 R McIlroy (NI), R Neergaard-Petersen (Den); -12 A Ayora (Spa), L Canter (Eng), M Fitzpatrick (England), T Fleetwood (Eng), T Hatton (England), R Hojgaard (Denmark)
Notable scores: -11 L Aberg (Swe), N Hojgaard (Denmark), J Rose (England); -10 S Lowry (Ire), R MacIntyre (Sco); -8 J Parry (Eng); -4 M Penge (England)
Rory McIlroy sank three birdies in the final five holes to claim a share of the lead of the tournament finale and close in on a seventh season-ending Race to Dubai crown.
McIlroy carded a 68 in the United Arab Emirates, in a performance including five birdies and a bogey to move to 13 under, along with Danish golfer Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen.
England's Laurie Canter (68), Matt Fitzpatrick (66), Tommy Fleetwood (68) along with Hatton (67) are on 12-under-par, along with Spanish player Ayora (67) and Denmark's Rasmus Hojgaard (65).
"All in all, a challenging round," commented the golfer. "Weather conditions proved difficult yet pleased to shoot the score that I did."
McIlroy has a substantial lead in the annual standings as he pursues his fourth straight tour championship title.
Tyrrell Hatton along with fellow Englishman Penge are the sole players capable of preventing McIlroy from winning the annual championship.
The English golfer must win the tournament while requiring McIlroy to finish outside tied for eighth to secure the title.
"My position is stronger than him [Hatton]," stated McIlroy. "My focus is on my game. If I play and play the golf at the level that I'm capable of, particularly on this layout, I know that I'll be OK.
"That would represent an amazing way to conclude the year."
Penge carded an improved 68 in round three following rounds of 74 and 70, but looks out of contention on four under.
