Griffiths takes two-shot lead in Spain

Back at the venue where he finished third in the European tour qualifying school last November, England’s David Griffiths takes a two-shot lead into the final round of the Spanish Open tomorrow.

The 25-year-old, who had the first top 10 finish of his tour career in Madeira a month ago, had a joint best-of-the-day 66 to move to 17 under par at San Roque.

Swedes Robert Karlsson and Niclas Fasth are his closest challengers, but pre-tournament favourites Colin Montgomerie and Miguel Angel Jimenez are deep in the pack.

On another day of low scoring Montgomerie and Jimenez managed only level par rounds of 72 and are down on eight under and four under respectively.

Montgomerie commented: “Nothing happened at all. I’m focused enough, but I didn’t really play very well. Never mind – a 60 tomorrow and you never know.”

Griffiths said: “It’s a brand new experience for me. I’ve never led before and it will be interesting whatever happens.

“I’m just going to try to keep doing what I’m doing. I felt really good today and I really pleased. I think I can win.”

England's Graeme Storm, leader after the first and second rounds, was still out in front after an outward 33, but then came three bogeys in four holes.

However, two birdies in the final few holes, including a chip-in at the last, lifted Storm back into a tie for fourth with Dane Thomas Bjorn.

Ireland's Peter Lawrie finished today on -8, as did Stephen Browne. David Higgins is two shots further back.