Rory McIlroy Shares Tied Top Spot As He Closes In On DP World Tour Title
Rory McIlroy recorded five birdies during his third round
Season Finale Third-Round Standings
-13 R McIlroy (Northern Ireland), R Neergaard-Petersen (Den); -12 A Ayora (Spa), L Canter (Eng), M Fitzpatrick (Eng), T Fleetwood (England), T Hatton (Eng), R Hojgaard (Den)
Selected others: -11 L Aberg (Sweden), N Hojgaard (Den), J Rose (Eng); -10 S Lowry (Ire), R MacIntyre (Sco); -8 J Parry (England); -4 M Penge (Eng)
The world-class golfer sank three under-par scores in the final five holes to move into the joint lead at the DP World Tour Championship edging closer to a seventh year-end tour championship title.
McIlroy shot a four-under-par 68 in Dubai, in a performance featuring five birdies and a bogey to climb to 13-under-par, joining Danish golfer Neergaard-Petersen.
England's Laurie Canter (68), Fitzpatrick (66), Tommy Fleetwood (68) along with Tyrrell Hatton (67) sit at 12-under-par, together with Spain's Angel Ayora (67) and Denmark's Rasmus Hojgaard (65).
"All in all, a bit of a battling day," commented McIlroy. "Weather conditions proved difficult but happy 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 Race to Dubai crown.
Tyrrell Hatton and compatriot Marco Penge are the sole players capable of preventing the Northern Irishman from claiming the season-long title.
The English golfer must win this event and have McIlroy finish worse than tied for eighth to secure the title.
"I'm in a better position compared to him [Hatton]," added the tournament leader. "My focus is on my game. If I play and perform at the level that I'm capable of, particularly on this layout, I know that I'll succeed.
"That would represent an amazing way to conclude the year."
Marco Penge shot an improved 68 in round three after scores of 74 and 70, yet appears unlikely to challenge on four under.
