England's Robert Rock shot 69 to be level with McIlroy, while compatriot Paul Casey carded 66 to be equal fifth with Scotland's Paul Lawrie (73).

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Darren Clarke and Paul Casey also hit rounds of 68 to move to 10 under while Paul McGinley is seven under for the tournament after a one-under-par 71.

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Paul Casey (68) is eight shots off the lead, while Ireland's Paul McGinley (68) is a shot further back.

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