Adam Scott forges 4-shot British Open lead

LYTHAM ST. ANNES, England, July 21 (UPI) -- Adam Scott, seeking his first major championship, will carry a four-shot lead into the final round of the British Open after posting a 2-under 68 Saturday.

That performance -- one stroke short of the 54-hole record held by Tom Lehman -- put Scott at 11-under 199, four better than a pair of competitors.

The Australian was consistent in hitting fairways and in putting Saturday, collecting three birdies and a single bogey in Round 3. He has won six of the eight times he's held at least a share of the 54-hole lead on the PGA Tour.

Tied for second at minus-7 were Graeme McDowell, who posted a 3-under 67, and second-round leader Brandt Snedeker, who overcame some mid-round trouble with an 18th-hole birdie for a 3-over 73.

Tiger Woods (even-par 70) claimed sole possession of fourth at 6-under par, five behind Scott, Zach Johnson (66) and Ernie Els (68) were tied for fifth at 5-under 205.