Erratic Troy Merritt retains lead ahead of final day at RBC Heritage

Troy Merritt will take a three-shot lead into the final day of the RBC Heritage after shooting 69 on Saturday to preserve his slim advantage.

The 29-year-old struggled to replicate the heroics that saw him card a record-equalling 61 at Harbour Town Golf Links on Friday, but he remains favourite to land what would be just a second professional win.

Two birdies in the first seven holes had set the American up for a steady front nine in South Carolina, but a double bogey at the eighth saw him regress.

However, Merritt bounced back well to birdie nine and 14 and finish the day on 14-under par, three clear of Brendon Todd, whose eight-under 63 puts him in contention for the title at Hilton Head on Sunday.

Kevin Kisner and defending champion Matt Kuchar also finished the day on 11 under, with a double bogey on seven hindering the latter's hopes of retaining his crown.

Brice Garnett, Branden Grace and Jim Furyk sit in a three-way tie for third on 10 under, with Bo Van Pelt and recently-crowned Masters champion Jordan Spieth one stroke back.