Northern Irish star McIlroy, chasing a second victory in his home open at The K Club, shot a bogey-free 68 to leave him tied for fourth place on 11 under par.

Ahead of him are Saddier, who also shot 68 to reach 15 under, Hidalgo and McIlroy’s playing partner Alfredo Garcia-Heredia, who outperformed the world number two by one stroke with two eagles in a 67 to reach 12 under.

The round of the day, though, belonged to Hidalgo who carved up the front nine with seven successive birdies and made 12 in all – equalling the European Tour record – in a stunning 63 despite a double bogey at the 16th.

McIlroy’s four birdies made for a subdued round by comparison and after ending the day level with second-round leader Joakim Lagergren, he said: “As I was walking off the 18th green, I said to Harry

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