Markus Brier edges ahead - Volvo China Open 2007

Graeme McDowell feels he is ready to start challenging for titles again on the European Tour but will have to overcome Markus Brier to do so this week.

McDowell has cared three rounds of 1-under-par 70 and is three shots behind Brier after Saturday's third round of the Volvo China Open.

McDowell is tied for fourth at 3-under 210 with South African Richard Sterne and 36-hole leader Raphael Jacquelin, who never recovered from making three bogeys in the first six holes Saturday on the way to a 75.

Tracking his first victory since the 2004 Italian Open, the 27-year-old McDowell has two career titles but feels his game is in shape to add a third.

"My game's been in great shape all year," said McDowell. "I had an OK start to the season and got in good positions but didn't really finish them off. But I know I've been playing really well and I'm very content with what I'm doing. I know what I'm doing around this golf course so let's see what happens."

Brier leads Australian Scott Hend by one shot after finishing strongly with three consecutive birdies to shoot an impressive 67.

The 38-year-old became the first Austrian to win on the European Tour when he triumphed in his home tournament last June in Vienna but, despite his relative inexperience, feels his advanced years could give him a crucial edge on Sunday.

"I'll be a little bit nervous but I've been in this position before and that helps," Brier said. "I am a bit more experienced than the other guys so hopefully that will be an advantage. Maybe I was a bit slow growing up golf-wise.

"I was late turning professional at the age of 27 and it takes me a bit longer to do things, especially on the mental side of things. Technically, I was okay and now my mental approach has got better. But the good thing about golf is that age is not a factor."

Brier revealed he would not be changing his approach tomorrow either.

"I've learnt the lesson that you can't force anything," he said. "I'll go through the same routine as the first three days and hope it is enough."

Hend, one of the longest drivers on tour, revealed a calmer approach to his golf is paying off for the Australian.

"I've been working hard to concentrate more on the process than the outcome," he said. "Today was a good step as it shows what I'm doing is working instead of getting frustrated."

South African Andrew McLardy posted a round of 67 and is in third at 4-under.