Flawless McDowell shines in China

Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell joined England's Oliver Wilson one stroke off the lead at the end of day three of the HSBC Champions event.

McDowell shot 65 in Saturday's second round, delayed after Friday's washout, and then made another birdie in four holes before the close for nine under.

Sergio Garcia caught Henrik Stenson at the top of the leaderboard on 10 under after a 68 to the Swede's 69 in China.

The pair are yet to start their third rounds and play could run to Monday.

Spain's Garcia is battling with Phil Mickelson for the world number two spot but the American is still in touch two shots off the pace after a second-round 70.

McDowell was the only player seen on the practice range on Friday as it poured down but it seemed as though the preparation paid off.

"My game wasn't firing at all cylinders at the weekend at Valderrama and on Thursday I didn't hit it particularly well," said McDowell.

"I had a bit of work to do on the range and despite the rain I managed to get some work done yesterday morning and Thursday evening and I definitely hit it much better."

Wilson, meanwhile, is looking for his maiden win after following his first-round 67 with a second round of 68.

"It would be nice to win the champion's tournament without actually winning before," said the world number 55, who is also yet to start his third round. "I'm due and I'm confident."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
European Tour
PGA Tour
BBC golf blog
Golf on the BBC
Golf tips
Golf rules and equipment
Latest golf discussions on 606
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites