Golf: Langer holds off chasing pack

Bernhard Langer maintained his overnight lead at the German Masters in Cologne and goes into the final day with a one-shot advantage over the field.

Langer, seeking his 11th tour victory on home soil and 39th in total, birdied the last for a 68 to keep his nose in front on 17-under-par.

Australian Stephen Leaney and Swede Fredrik Jacobson sit alongside Greg Owen of Mansfield in second place, one shot behind Langer.

Owen carded a third round 67 and insists he will adopt a "chilled out" approach as he chases his maiden European Tour victory in Sunday's final round.

Former Open champion John Daly is also in contention to complete a German double a month after his first win since St Andrews in 1995 in the BMW International Open in Munich.

A brilliant 64 left him just three off the pace with English pair David Lynn and Gary Evans and South African Roger Wessels also on 14 under.

Langer began the day two shots ahead of the field but could never quite shake off the attentions of the chasing pack and was grateful for his closing birdie to maintain his advantage.

"It's very close and whoever is within four shots of the lead still has a chance if they can shoot really low," said Langer who has already won this event - which he co-promotes and runs with brother Erwin - three times.

Leaney thought his chance had gone after an outward half of 37 but came racing home in 30 thanks to four birdies and an eagle.

"I was worried I was getting left behind but kept hanging on in there and the chip-in on the 15th really got me going," said the Australian who has three tour titles to his credit.