Shane Lowry well in contention at British Masters

Earlier in the day, Bradley Dredge was forced to withdraw from the tournament just minutes before he was due to start his third round at only two shots off the lead.

“Today didn’t have any particularly good shots”, he told the European Tour.

Rookie pro Paul Dunne ensured himself a second pay cheque in as many weeks with scores of 71 and 69 for a share of 42nd at two under par while Michael Hoey made it right on the level par cut with rounds of 69 and 73.

“I have got myself in a great position and I would love to go out there tomorrow and shoot another round like that”, said Donald.

“With Rory I understood the commitments he had in America and we had external doctors verify the fact he couldn’t play in more tournaments (than the obligatory 13)”. “I’d love to shoot another round like this and if I did I think that might be good enough”.

Donald became world number one by beating Lee Westwood in a play-off for the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in 2011 and successfully defended the title 12 months later.

“I would just like to win any tournament to be honest, but it would be a little more special in the UK”.

Former US Open champion Graeme McDowell is six shots off the leaders.

“I felt I was hitting the ball really well”, Donald said. “My swing is back to being similar to what it was while my work on the range is back to what it was before”, he said. “I’ve spent a few time with Luke over the last couple of months and now it will be nice to sort of go head-to-head with him in the final round”, revealed Fitzpatrick.

While he was pleased to recover with a 68 yesterday to miss the one under par cut by just four shots, he admitted he was simply too mentally exhausted on the opening day and saw red as his game faltered.

Matthew Fitzpatrick will play for a first European Tour victory on Sunday (October 11) but to win the British Masters supported by Sky Sports he will have to overcome a player who has won twice this season alone.