🔗 Share this article McIlroy Holds Joint Lead While Closes In On DP World Tour Title Rory McIlroy secured five under-par scores during his Saturday performance DP World Tour Championship Saturday Standings -13 R McIlroy (Northern Ireland), R Neergaard-Petersen (Den); -12 A Ayora (Spain), L Canter (England), M Fitzpatrick (Eng), T Fleetwood (Eng), T Hatton (Eng), R Hojgaard (Den) Notable scores: -11 L Aberg (Sweden), N Hojgaard (Den), J Rose (England); -10 S Lowry (Ire), R MacIntyre (Sco); -8 J Parry (Eng); -4 M Penge (Eng) Rory McIlroy secured three under-par scores over the closing stretch to move into the joint lead of the tournament finale and close in on his seventh season-ending Race to Dubai crown. McIlroy shot a 68 in the United Arab Emirates, during a round including five birdies with one bogey to move to 13-under-par, joining Denmark's Neergaard-Petersen. English golfers Canter (68), Matt Fitzpatrick (66), Fleetwood (68) along with Tyrrell Hatton (67) sit at 12 under, along with Spain's Ayora (67) and Denmark's Rasmus Hojgaard (65). "All in all, a challenging round," said the golfer. "Weather conditions proved difficult yet happy with shooting my score." The 36-year-old holds a substantial lead at the top of the annual standings as he pursues his fourth straight Race to Dubai crown. Hatton and fellow Englishman Penge are the sole players who can stop McIlroy from claiming the annual championship. The English golfer must win this event while requiring his rival to finish outside the top eight to secure the title. "My position is stronger compared to him [Hatton]," stated the tournament leader. "My focus is on my game. If I play and perform that I know that I'm capable of, especially around this golf course, I'm confident that I'll succeed. "It would be a fantastic manner to end the season." Penge carded an improved 68 in round three after scores of 74 and 70, but looks out of contention on four under.