Haotong’s eagle rush bites Dust

DUSTIN JOHNSON is expecting a difficult final round duel against China’s Li Haotong who produced four eagles yesterday to catch the American at the top of the inaugural Saudi International.

World No.3 Johnson came into the third round with a three-shot lead after posting a sensational 61 at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club on Friday.

But he was reined in on day three as Li carded four eagles - including three on the back nine - as well as two birdies and a double bogey in his 62 to join Johnson on 16 under par.

The 2016 US Open champion said: “Haotong is a good player. He’s obviously playing well right now. I think it’s going to be a tough match against him for the most part but I’m looking forward to it.”

Former Masters champion Sergio Garcia was disqualified, admitting to damaging greens in frustration.

He said: “I respect the decision of my disqualification. In frustration, I damaged a couple of greens, for which I apologise, and I have informed my fellow players it will never happen again.”