2024 Irish Open scores: Rory McIlroy takes 54-hole lead into final round at Royal County Down

McIlroy shoots 66 to lead by one from Shane Lowry and Jon Rahm

Rory McIlroy will take a one-shot lead into the final round of the 2024 Irish Open at Royal County Down after shooting a 66 on Saturday.

The four-time major champion is seeking his first Irish Open title since 2016 and will be confident of adding to his tally after a superb third round.

Lowry and Rahm trail by one

Shane Lowry and Jon Rahm are McIlroy's nearest challengers, both one shot behind after rounds of 67 and 68 respectively.

Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, birdied the last to stay in contention, while Rahm's round was highlighted by an eagle at the par-five 16th.

Fitzpatrick and Hovland in the mix

Matthew Fitzpatrick and Viktor Hovland are two shots off the lead on nine under par.

Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, carded a 67, while Hovland, the reigning BMW PGA Championship winner, shot a 68.

McIlroy looking to end Irish Open drought

McIlroy will be hoping to end his Irish Open drought on Sunday and claim his fifth title on home soil.

The 33-year-old has been in excellent form this season, winning the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai and the Honda Classic on the PGA Tour.

He will be the favorite to lift the trophy at Royal County Down, but Lowry and Rahm will be determined to spoil the party.