Woods closes in on year's maiden title

Seeking his first tournament win since the 2009 Australian Masters, the former world number one recovered from a faltering start to fire a four-under 68 at Sherwood Country Club.

Boosted by a three-birdie run on the front nine and two more in the last three holes, Woods closed in on his fifth victory at his own event by posting a 17-under total of 199.

He struck a superb eight-iron approach at the par-four last to within a foot, sparking huge roars from the gallery watching from the natural amphitheatre below the imposing clubhouse.

His playing partner, US Open champion Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland, was alone in second after carding a 68 with Englishman Paul Casey (69) a further four shots back in third.

“I'm excited about tomorrow because of the way I've been playing,” Woods told reporters after putting himself in prime position to complete his first wire-to-wire victory since the 2006 WGC-American Express Championship. “I'm excited how I've been hitting the golf ball now.”