Danny Willett leads Dubai Desert Classic going into final round

Published: February 6 2016 | 23:00

Last updated: February 7 2016 | 07:26

England's Danny Willett leads Rafael Cabrera-Bello by one shot heading into the final day of the Dubai Desert Classic, with Rory McIlroy eight shots off the pace.

England's Danny Willett will take a one-shot lead into the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic having shot a seven-under round of 65 on day three today.

The world number 20 hit an eagle at the 13th in addition to six birdies to move into the lead ahead of Spain's Rafael Cabrera-Bello, who sits one shot further back after a third consecutive round of 67.

Danny Willett plays his second shot on the 16th hole during the third round of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic on February 6, 2016 © Getty Images

Andy Sullivan, also of England, went round in 66 to take him to 14-under overall, while Netherlands' Joost Luiten and another Englishman Chris Wood are also in contention on 13-under and 11-under respectively.

Defending champion Rory McIlroy sits eight shots off the lead on eight-under, meanwhile, having registered six birdies on the back nine to take him to 68 for the round.

Willett finished as runner-up to McIlroy in last season's Race to Dubai.