South African Jarvis eyes Alfred Dunhill title

LONDON: Casey Jarvis on Saturday moved a step closer to winning the Alfred Dunhill Championship after building a two-stroke lead heading into the final round.

Jarvis's round of seven-under par on the Old Course at St Andrews maintained his fine form at the links event.

The tournament is played over three courses – Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and St Andrews – with the latter also hosting the last round on Sunday.

Jarvis, who held a one-shot advantage overnight, opened with a superb eagle on his approach from 103 yards before picking up three birdies ahead of the turn despite the windy conditions.

Two more on the back nine, at three and five, saw him sign for a 65, to sit at 18 under, ahead of Englishman Matthew Jordan and Poland's Adrian Meronk, who shot the joint-best round of the day with a nine-under 63 at Kingsbarns.

"I just felt like I was in control of my game today," said Jarvis, who is aiming to seal a third DP World Tour win this season.

"Every golfer dreams of taking a lead, playing the Old Course on Sunday. I got goosebumps right now just standing here.

"I just can't wait for tomorrow. Even if I don't win, to be taking the lead, I am just going to enjoy it as much as I can."

Chasing his first DP World Tour win in his 183rd tournament, Jordan carded a bogey-free 66 during his third round at Kingsbarns.

Belgian Thomas Detry is at 15-under after his seven-under at St Andrews, while Denmark's Jacob Skov Olesen, who made a nine-under 63 at Kingsbarns, is four shots off the lead.