đź”— Share this article McIlroy Shares Tied Top Spot As He Nears Dubai Title Rory McIlroy secured five birdies in his Saturday performance Season Finale Saturday Standings -13 R McIlroy (Northern Ireland), R Neergaard-Petersen (Denmark); -12 A Ayora (Spain), L Canter (Eng), M Fitzpatrick (England), T Fleetwood (Eng), T Hatton (Eng), R Hojgaard (Den) Selected others: -11 L Aberg (Swe), N Hojgaard (Denmark), J Rose (England); -10 S Lowry (Ireland), R MacIntyre (Sco); -8 J Parry (England); -4 M Penge (Eng) Rory McIlroy sank three under-par scores in the final five holes to claim a share of the lead at the tournament finale edging closer to his seventh season-ending Race to Dubai crown. The Northern Irishman recorded a 68 in Dubai, during a round featuring five birdies and a bogey to climb to 13 under, joining Denmark's Neergaard-Petersen. England's Laurie Canter (68), Matt Fitzpatrick (66), Tommy Fleetwood (68) along with Hatton (67) are on 12 under, along with Spanish player Ayora (67) and Danish competitor Rasmus Hojgaard (65). "All in all, a challenging round," said McIlroy. "Weather conditions proved difficult but pleased to shoot my score." The 36-year-old has a 767-point lead in the annual standings as he pursues his fourth straight Race to Dubai crown. Hatton along with fellow Englishman Penge are the sole players capable of preventing McIlroy from winning the season-long title. The English golfer must win this event and have McIlroy to finish outside the top eight to secure the title. "My position is stronger compared to him [Hatton]," added McIlroy. "I'm focused on myself. If I go out and perform at the level that I'm capable of, especially around this layout, I know that I'll be OK. "It would be a fantastic manner to conclude the year." Penge carded a better 68 on Saturday following rounds of 74 and 70, but looks unlikely to challenge on four under.