Rare China For Damien

Apr 20 2008 By Callum Robb

IRISHMAN Damien McGrane wants to kill his European Tour title jinx by finally finishing the job at the Volvo China Open today.

McGrane has been pipped at the post more times than he cares to mention but holds a comfortable three-stroke lead going into the last round in Beijing.

He said: "I've been close for years now but am still looking for my first win.

"I have to start somewhere and the sooner it comes the better. It is nice to go out as leader with a little cushion.

"But this is a tough course and I must play my own game and focus on what I am doing."

McGrane's showing in China - a four under-par 68 yesterday to move 10 under for the tournament - is no surprise after his run of fine recent form.

He was second at the Indian Masters two months ago and outscored playing partner Tiger Woods in the third round of January's Dubai Desert Classic.

The 36-year-old notched seven birdies tempered by three bogeys. His nearest rivals Oliver Wilson and overnight leader Michael Lorenzo-Vera carded 70 and 72 respectively.

English-born Wilson's round was peppered with birdies and bogeys too and he said: "There were three short putts I shouldn't have missed but I recovered well."

Australian Scott Strange chalked up six birdies to card the best score of the day with a six-under-par 66 and was six under overall. Defending champ Markus Brier was four under overall after carding a level par 72.