Casey shows his potential

Paul Casey is one of Britain's promising young players

Colin Moffat BBC Sport Online at Loch Lomond

Paul Casey enhanced his reputation as one of Europe's most promising youngsters with a blistering third-round performance in the Scottish Open.

With the large crowds basking in pleasant sunshine and the splendid course drying out, the Englishman thrilled his audience with a round of 65, to equal the best score of the week. Former Walker Cup star Casey now sits at seven under par for the event.

"It could have been better, but, all in all, I'm very happy," said the 25-year-old.

It was the first time I've played the back nine in under par

Paul Casey

"I hope to be somewhere near the lead at the end of the day.

"You don't wish anyone a bad score, but I'd like to be four or five off the front, maximum."

Casey, who hit four birdies on a flawless front nine, enjoyed the pleasant weather after the unpredictable heavy showers on days one and two.

"It's always easier when the sun shines, although the fairways are still fairly wet."

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A shot was dropped at the twelfth, but gains at the tenth, fifteenth and last more than compensated.

"I've struggled at the tenth all week, so it was nice to pick something up there," Casey revealed.

"And it was the first time I've played the back nine in under par."

Another 65 and I'd be a very happy man

Paul Casey

Casey, who had his best finish of the season last weekend, when he finished in a tie for ninth at the European Open, is on track for a place at Muirfield if he can put in another good display on Sunday.

"Another 65 and I'd be a very happy man," he said with a smile.

Casey, who is enjoying just his second season on the European Tour, is joined on 206 by a veteran of more than 500 events, Roger Chapman.

The 42-year-old Englishman, who was twice a winner in 2000 after a barren spell of 19 years as a professional, enjoyed a great run home to shoot a 66.

Chapman hit four consecutive birdies from the par-five thirteenth to motor up the leaderboard.