Els targets record fourth Dubai title after 65

By Tony Jimenez

DUBAI (Reuters) - World number five Ernie Els's hopes of a record fourth Dubai Desert Classic title soared when a sizzling seven-under-par 65 secured a one-stroke lead after Saturday's third round.

With Friday's strong winds and overcast skies giving way to light breezes and pleasant sunshine at the Emirates Golf Club, the South African wrested the initiative from overnight leader Tiger Woods by chalking up an 11-under tally of 205.

Holder Henrik Stenson of Sweden fired a 68 to take second place on 206, two ahead of Britain's Lee Westwood (68) and Graeme McDowell (69).

World number one Woods was strangely out of sorts as he slipped to a one-over 73 to join a group on 209 which included Spain's Sergio Garcia.

"I knew at the start I probably needed two 64s to have half a chance," Els told reporters.

"As it turned out I shot a 65 today and I probably need another really low one tomorrow. I can't see Henrik and Tiger and the other guys not shooting low."

EAGLE PUTT