McDowell finds a way through the trees during the third round

Graeme McDowell is two shots behind leader Ian Poulter at the Hong Kong Open after firing a seven-under-par 63 in Saturday's third round.

The Portrush player, who trails Race to Dubai leader Martin Kaymer by £313,000, posted six birdies and an eagle to lie second on 17 under.

Rory McIlroy remains in contention after a 66 left him 15 under while Darren Clarke is 10 under after a 64.

Gareth Maybin (68) and Michael Hoey (69) are both on eight under.

All five Northern Ireland players are in the top 20 going into the final round.

Meanwhile, Damien McGrane (67) is eight under with Peter Lawrie (72) two under and Paul McGinley (73) level.

McDowell picked up shots at the second, fourth and seventh before his only blemish at the eighth.

The US Open champion drove the par-fourth 10th and made an eagle before carding three straight birdies from the 13th.

"I've played great every day this week, the course sets up well for me and I've felt good on the greens," said McDowell.

"It was about positioning myself to give me a chance to win on Sunday and that is what I have done."

McIlroy slipped back to joint fourth after round which included five birdies and a bogey.

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