Rory McIlroy Holds Joint Lead While Nears DP World Tour Title
Rory McIlroy secured five birdies during his third round
Season Finale Saturday Standings
-13 R McIlroy (NI), R Neergaard-Petersen (Den); -12 A Ayora (Spain), L Canter (Eng), M Fitzpatrick (Eng), T Fleetwood (Eng), T Hatton (England), R Hojgaard (Den)
Selected others: -11 L Aberg (Sweden), N Hojgaard (Denmark), J Rose (Eng); -10 S Lowry (Ire), R MacIntyre (Scotland); -8 J Parry (Eng); -4 M Penge (Eng)
The world-class golfer sank three birdies over the closing stretch to move into the joint lead at the tournament finale and close in on his seventh year-end Race to Dubai title.
McIlroy recorded a four-under-par 68 in the United Arab Emirates, during a round featuring five birdies and a bogey to climb to 13 under, joining Danish golfer Neergaard-Petersen.
England's Canter (68), Fitzpatrick (66), Tommy Fleetwood (68) and Tyrrell Hatton (67) are on 12 under, along with Spain's Angel Ayora (67) and Danish competitor Rasmus Hojgaard (65).
"Overall, a bit of a battling day," commented McIlroy. "Weather conditions were tricky enough but pleased with shooting my score."
The 36-year-old holds a substantial lead at the top of the season-long rankings as he goes for his fourth consecutive tour championship title.
Hatton and compatriot Marco Penge are the sole players who can stop the Northern Irishman from claiming the annual championship.
The English golfer must win the tournament while requiring McIlroy to finish outside tied for eighth to win it.
"I'm in a better position compared to him [Hatton]," stated the tournament leader. "My focus is on my game. If I play and perform at the level that I'm capable of, especially around this golf course, I know that I'll be OK.
"It would be an amazing way to conclude the year."
Penge shot an improved 68 in round three following rounds of 74 and 70, yet appears unlikely to challenge on four under.
