Els and Oosthuizen lead South African charge in Dubai

By Tony Jimenez

DUBAI (Reuters) - Ernie Els and Louis Oosthuizen were leading a two-pronged South African assault on the Dubai Desert Classic title midway through Sunday's final round.

Oosthuizen, who began the day on five under par, sprinted through the field after seven birdies in 14 holes took him alongside overnight leader Els on 12 under.

The 25-year-old Oosthuizen, chasing his first victory on the European Tour, made a fast start with birdies at the opening three holes.

Three-times champion Els was less spectacular, picking up a solitary birdie by the eighth hole.

One stroke off the lead on 11 under was holder Henrik Stenson of Sweden, who had played nine.

World number one Tiger Woods and German youngster Martin Kaymer, who won the Abu Dhabi Championship two weeks ago, were back on 10 under.

Argentina's Ricardo Gonzalez was the leader in the clubhouse on eight-under 280 after firing eight birdies in a seven-under 65.