Sweden's Marcus Kinhult maintained his lead after a challenging third round at the Alfred Dunhill Championship.

He is setting himself up for a potential second DP World Tour title at Leopard Creek. Kinhult carded a solid 69 in cooler conditions to finish the day at 14-under-par, holding a two-shot advantage heading into Sunday’s final round. 

South Africa’s Ryan van Velzen surged into contention with an impressive 65, climbing to 12-under-par. Meanwhile, Darius van Driel of the Netherlands stayed in the hunt with a 67, finishing at 11-under.

It was far from smooth sailing for many atop the leaderboard. Charl Schwartzel’s round was a tale of two halves, as he stumbled to a front nine of 42 but recovered with a back nine of 32, ending the day at five-under-par. Dean Burmester battled his way to a 70, including two double bogeys, keeping himself in contention at 10-under.

Kinhult admitted the day was a grind but expressed confidence in his game.

 “The good was very good, but I left myself in tough positions at times. I think I managed well despite hitting fewer greens in regulation,” he said. 

The Swede, seeking his first victory since 2019, feels Leopard Creek suits his game. “Sleeping on a lead isn’t easy, but I like this course. It fits my eye. I’ll need a strong round to win, and I’m ready for the challenge.”

Van Velzen, chasing his first DP World Tour title, was pleased with his performance. 

“My driver has been great, and I’ve avoided risky flags. Two bogey-free rounds feel good, and I’m playing solid golf,” he said.

Burmester remains optimistic despite being four strokes back. “Around this course, four shots aren’t much. Anything can happen. Marcus looks strong, but I enjoy chasing from behind,” he remarked. The stage is set for a thrilling final round on Sunday.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg