Rory McIlroy closes to within two shots of the lead ahead of Dubai Desert Classic final round

Rory McIlroy propelled himself to within two shots of the lead ahead of Sunday's final round at the Dubai Desert Classic.

The world number eight carded a third-round 69 to rise up to second on the leaderboard on 10 under at the Emirates Golf Club course to put himself right in contention for victory behind current leader Justin Harding.

Padraig Harrington also carded a 69 to climb into a tie for 11th on seven under, while Shane Lowry's 68 has the Offaly man four shots further back in joint-23rd.

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In a more mixed round than his bogey-free effort on Friday, McIlroy's four birdies were balanced out by bogeys on holes three, 11 and 16.

But it was his eagle on the 10th which briefly moved him to within one shot of the lead and ultimately proved crucial in putting him in the mix for Sunday's closing round.

Rory McIlroy eagles the 10th