Rory McIlroy’s bogey-free 68 on Saturday left him four shots off the lead heading into the final round of the Irish Open.
The world No 2 carded four birdies at the par-72, 7,441-yard K Club to remain in touch with France’s Adrien Saddier, who also signed for a 68.
Saddier, the Italian Open champion, leads by one from Spain’s Angel Hidalgo, whose 12 birdies in a nine-under 63 equalled a European Tour record.
Another Spaniard, Alfredo Garcia-Heredia, posted a 67 to sit three behind, while overnight leader Joakim Lagergren slipped four shots back after a 73.
McIlroy, chasing a second Irish Open crown, admitted frustration despite producing a second straight bogey-free round.
“As I was walking off the 18th green, I said to Harry [Diamond, his caddie], this is probably the most frustrating four under par round I’ve played in a while,” McIlroy said. “I feel like I could be a couple of shots better, but overall I’m still in a decent position going into tomorrow.”
Hidalgo, delighted with his record-equalling haul of birdies, said: “For a few moments I felt like I was playing the PlayStation. Every shot went straight at the pin.”
Saddier, who mixed seven birdies with three bogeys, acknowledged he was surprised to lead.
“There is still 18 holes to play, so a lot can happen,” he said.
South Africa’s Shaun Norris was eight under (T10) following a round of 65 that included a standout seven birdies.
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