Published Saturday, 05 November 2011
The US Open champion bagged seven birdies on his way to a seven-under round of 65 on Saturday morning, leaving him on 12-under heading into the final days play.
McIlroy, who is chasing a second consecutive tournament win after clinching the Shanghai Masters, is currently in fourth place, four shots shy of leader Fredrick Jacobson of Sweden.
2010 US Open winner McDowell also had an impressive, bogey-free showing, claiming five birdies en route to a third round score of 67, leaving him five shots off the lead and trailing his compatriot McIlroy by a single shot.
Elsewhere Open champion Darren Clarke recovered from Friday's four over round of 76 to card a 67 on Saturday, leaving him on even par.
Michael Hoey shot 74 to leave him on four over heading into Sunday's final round.