Donald extends lead to three shots

Britain's Luke Donald stayed on course for his first title when he took a three-shot lead after the third round of the Scandinavian Masters on Saturday.

Playing in only his ninth European Tour event as a professional, the 26-year-old stayed ahead of the field with a three-under-par 69 despite hitting bogeys in his last two holes.

Donald had holed out for an eagle-two at the 13th and not dropped a shot for 46 holes.

His faltering finish moved him to 13-under-par 203 while local favourite Peter Hanson trailed at 10-under-par 206.

"Three poor drives cost me at the end because 16 is a birdie chance and five strokes is a bigger cushion but if I keep playing the way I've been playing, it will be hard for anyone to catch me," said Donald.

Hanson, who holed in one during the second round, carded a 68 to stay in front of his fellow-countryman Henrik Stenson, who is five shots off the pace.

Donald is also hoping to boost his chances of securing a Ryder Cup spot as victory would move him five places up to 10th in the European world points Cup table, with four counting events to come after this tournament.

Only the top five in the world list gain automatic selection for Oakland Hills.

If Donald does not secure his place outright, European captain Bernhard Langer could pick the Britain as one of his two wildcards.

"The way I've played for the last three days is going to keep Bernhard's attention but finishing this off is important," said Donald.

"A win on the European Tour would mean a lot to me, give me a lot of confidence and help my Ryder Cup chances."

Hanson, who is also looking for a maiden title, said: "I still think I can win but the start of (Sunday's final) round could be very important."

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