Darren Clarke led the European challenge on day three of the Open championship but his chances of victory on Sunday look decidedly slim unless Tiger Woods stops roaring on the St. Andrews links.
Clarke, Europe's number one player this season, birdied two of the last three holes on Saturday to card a 68 and stand on 9-under after three rounds.
Clarke has now finished 70, 69 and 68, supremely consistent scoring. But even if he continues that trend it is unlikely to be enough to lift the claret jug, such has been Woods' domination of the event.
Unlike Lee Westwood, his good friend and the other half of what has become known as a Ryder Cup double-act who shot a disappointing 75, Clarke has handled the Old Course confidently, notably with his putting which has been of the highest order.
Clarke plays from the rough during Saturdays round. Allsport.
He refused to rule out his chances of success on Sunday. "I came into the week hoping to get on the leader board and it has worked out. Invariably Tiger has his name up at the top and he is a tough man to beat but this golf course can throw up surprises. He is playing fantastic but he is not invincible at the end of the day."
Clarke wants the conditions to worsen to give everyone behind Woods a better chance.
"I would like the wind to blow a little more. You cannot put a figure on it because this golf course will jump up and bite you. Everyone's chances depends on what Tiger does."
