Mcllroy closes gap in Dubai with nine-under 63

Rory McIlroy shot a nine-under-par 63 to reduce Cameron Young’s lead to two strokes going into the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic.

McIlroy, the defending champion, was 10 shots behind Young at the halfway stage.

The Northern Irishman hit seven birdies and finished his round on an eagle to finish 12 under.

McIlroy was tied 24th after the second round but consecutive birdies on the seventh, eighth and ninth to finish the front nine put the 34-year-old back in contention.

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The four-time Major winner ended his round with a brilliant eagle putt on the eighteenth to finish on 63.

Should McIlroy win the title today, he will become the first four-time winner of the Dubai Desert Classic.