Emirates GC

The world number two carded a disappointing one-under-par 71.

The Northern Irishman birdied the final two holes at Emirates Golf Club to card a closing 68 and finish a shot ahead of Reed on…

McIlroy birdied the final two holes at Emirates Golf Club to card a closing 68 and finish 19 under par.

England’s Callum Shinkwin and Dan Bradbury are McIlroy’s closest challengers heading into the final round.

The 49-year-old returned to complete his second round on Saturday morning, carding three more birdies and a solitary bogey in his remaining 14 holes.

McIlroy and Reed found themselves a shot behind world number one amateur Ludvig Aberg and Ian Poulter.

The pre-tournament build-up had been dominated by the war of words between Reed and McIlroy.

Reed was able to complete 16 holes on a truncated day at Emirates Golf Club.

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Justin Harding takes two-shot lead into final day

Justin Harding takes 2-shot lead

Joachim B. Hansen takes opening lead as play suspended overnight