McIlroy takes command in European Masters

(CNN) -- Teenager Rory McIlroy took command of the European Masters with a brilliant five-under-par 66 at Crans-Sur-Sierre on Saturday to take a four-shot lead going into the final round.

The 19-year-old from Northern Ireland is seeking his first European Tour title and from the moment he eagled the 543-yard first left no doubt as to his intentions.

In the thin air of the Swiss mountain resort, he needed only a drive and nine-iron to find the green before draining the putt.

"That settled my nerves," he told the Press Association.

"It was definitely more satisfying than the 63 given the circumstances. Brett is a very good player and five under was a very good effort.

"This is my first time in this situation and I'm just really looking forward to tomorrow. I don't want to take my foot off the pedal - I've a four-shot lead and I'd like a six-shot lead tomorrow.

"Trying to make birdies is the way I play my best. It would be fantastic to win."

McIlloy, who opened the tournament with an eight-under 63, has a 54-hole total of 13-under 200 to lead a group of six players bunched on 204.

The chasers included Robet Dinwiddie of England, who shot a day's best 64.

Defending champion Brett Rumford, who shared the overnight lead with McIlroy, only managed a 73 and dropped down to a share of 16th place on 207.

Miguel Angel Jimenez of Spain, the highest ranked player in the field as he warms up for the Ryder Cup, is in a five-strong group on 205 in a closely contested tournament.

McIllroy burst to prominence in 2007 as he finished leading amateur in the British Open at Carnoustie, turning professional shortly afterwards and securing his Tour card with a series of impressive performances.

Copyright 2008 CNN. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Associated Press contributed to this report.