Rory McIlroy Holds Tied Top Spot While Closes In On Dubai Championship
Rory McIlroy hit five birdies during his Saturday performance
Season Finale Saturday Standings
-13 R McIlroy (NI), R Neergaard-Petersen (Den); -12 A Ayora (Spain), L Canter (England), M Fitzpatrick (Eng), T Fleetwood (Eng), T Hatton (England), R Hojgaard (Den)
Selected others: -11 L Aberg (Swe), N Hojgaard (Den), J Rose (Eng); -10 S Lowry (Ire), R MacIntyre (Scotland); -8 J Parry (Eng); -4 M Penge (England)
The world-class golfer made three under-par scores over the closing stretch to move into the joint lead of the tournament finale and close in on a seventh year-end Race to Dubai title.
McIlroy recorded a 68 in Dubai, during a round including five birdies with one bogey to climb to 13 under, joining Denmark's Neergaard-Petersen.
English golfers Laurie Canter (68), Matt Fitzpatrick (66), Fleetwood (68) and Hatton (67) sit at 12 under, together with Spain's Ayora (67) and Danish competitor Rasmus Hojgaard (65).
"Overall, a bit of a battling day," commented the golfer. "Weather conditions proved difficult but happy with shooting my score."
McIlroy holds a substantial lead at the top of the season-long rankings as he pursues his fourth consecutive Race to Dubai crown.
Hatton along with compatriot Penge are the sole players who can stop the Northern Irishman from claiming the season-long title.
The English golfer needs to win this event while requiring his rival to finish outside tied for eighth to secure the title.
"My position is stronger compared to him [Hatton]," stated the tournament leader. "My focus is on my game. If I go out and perform at the level that I'm capable of, especially around this golf course, I'm confident that I'll succeed.
"It would be a fantastic manner to conclude the year."
Penge carded a better 68 in round three following rounds of 74 and 70, but looks unlikely to challenge at four-under-par.
