Woods keeps fight going

Woods began the final round eight shots behind Sergio Garcia and seemingly out of contention for a 13th major victory, especially as the early starters were faced with wind and torrential rain.

But as the weather cleared Woods made his first birdie of the day after almost holing his approach to the fourth, and then added another on the next from five feet.

At three under par Woods was suddenly into a share of third place, not what Garcia will have wanted to see as he finished his preparations on the practice ground.

Garcia led by three shots on nine under par, the Ryder Cup star out in the final group for the second year in succession.

His nearest challenger was American Steve Stricker, who carded the lowest ever round in an Open at Carnoustie with a superb 64 yesterday, which also equalled the course record held by Alan Tait and Colin Montgomerie.

Eight players were tied for third place on three under par, including Ireland's Paul McGinley and Padraig Harrington, England's Paul Broadhurst and 2002 champion Ernie Els.

Els drove out of bounds to run up a triple bogey eight in the third round, but played the back nine in just 31 to card a 68.

England's Mark Foster had posted the first sub-par round of the day despite having the worst of the conditions, the 31-year-old from Worksop carding a 69 to finish four over par.

Playing partner David Howell struggled to a 75, Sandy Lyle went out in 42 in his 79 and Luke Donald managed just one better with a 78.