Rory McIlroy admits he will need a great final round to secure a second U.S. Open Championship at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
The Northern Irishman began the third round four shots off the lead held by Gary Woodland and ended it five adrift of the American after a 70 featuring three birdies and two bogeys.
But he does not have four Major titles for nothing and is confident he can low on Sunday, although he believes he may still need some help from the leaders.
“I think it is in there," he said. "I definitely think I can shoot 65 or 66 on this golf course.
I definitely think I can shoot 65 or 66 on this golf course. I’ve got a little opportunity tomorrow - Rory McIlroy
“That’s probably what it is going to take tomorrow. Everything has got to be on. You’ve got to get off to a fast start, you’ve got to play the par fives well and you need to hit it in the fairways all day. It’s difficult. It is possible, but it is difficult.
“I’ve hit the ball in the fairway for the most part, I’ve been smart, I’ve hit to the right part of the greens. Today I felt like I didn’t get as much out the round as I could have but at the same time at a U.S. Open, you have to hang around.
“As much as you like to think you get four opportunities a year to win these things, you might only get one or two depending on how you play. I’ve got a little opportunity tomorrow.
“I’ve obviously got some ground to make up but, at the same time, it’s tough. Leaders can make bogeys, make mistakes, and I’m going to have to rely on them doing that. But I need a great round out of myself.”
