Darren Clarke takes one-shot lead into final round of The Open

Darren Clarke has a one-shot lead from Dustin Johnson after 54 holes of the 140th Open Championship at Royal St Goerge’s.

The Northern Irishman shot a fine 69, which included three birdies and two bogeys, in the third round to take his tournament total to -5.

Clarke is bidding to continue a remarkable run for Northern Ireland in recent Majors after Grame McDowell and Rory McIlroy won the last two US Opens and his sublime iron play throughout the week means he will have every chance of doing that on Sunday.

Johnson, his nearest contender on -4, was one of only two men to shoot a better round than the leader on Saturday. Johnson and compatriot Rickie Fowler signed for 68s.

Fowler’s was the most impressive round of the day as he had to contend with lashing rain and winds that gusted at over 30mph.

The 22-year-old’s two-under-par knock leaves him on the same score for the tournament, just three shots back from Clarke.

Also on -2 is Thomas Bjorn, while joint overnight leader Lucas Glover and fan favourite Miguel Angel Jimenez are on -1 and will play together on Sunday.

A dangerous group of six players are posied on even par, including Phil Mickelson and Martin Kaymer.

Elsewhere, many of the early starters struggled in the worst weather of the week and  there were disappointing rounds from home hopefuls Rory McIlroy (74), Paul Casey (78) and Justin Rose (79).

Five-time Open champion Tom Watson was the best of the early starters as he delighted the large crowds who braved the weather with a 72 that catapulted him into the top 25.