Swede still in charge

Per-Ulrik Johansson will take a four-shot lead into the final round of the Russian Open.

Per-Ulrik Johansson returned a third-round 67 to ensure he will take a four-shot lead into the final round of the Russian Open on Sunday. The Swede now stands on 18-under-par and retains the healthy advantage built up by his magnificent 62 on Friday. His closest challengers are Dutchman Robert-Jan Derksen and Alan McLean of Scotland who carded 65 and 67 respectively on Saturday. One shot further adrift on 13-under are Adam Gee of England and Irishman Gary Murphy - who started the third round as Johansson's nearest rival. The Swede looks primed to claim his first European Tour title in over a decade and maintained his stranglehold on the tournament as he produced a further five birdies and an eagle during the course of his third round. Indeed, his lead would be even more commanding were it not for a double-bogey six at on the 18th which he played as the ninth after officials made a 'U-draw' to ensure proceedings got back on schedule after the rain delays on Friday. Johansson was quick to insist he still had much to do to ensure victory and remained keen not to look too far ahead. "I have a bit of a routine from the past with my successes so hopefully that will pay off tomorrow," he told the European Tour's website. "I am very pleased with today but it is going to be a tough day tomorrow, there are still a lot of guys there right behind me so I have to keep playing my game. "I know it is a cliche but it is the only way to go in this game."