Molinari takes slim lead into Scottish Open finale

INVERNESS, Scotland (AP) Francesco Molinari held off a barrage of challengers on a third straight low-scoring day at the Scottish Open on Saturday, shooting a 5-under 67 to take a one-stroke lead into the final round.

The Italian, who held the overnight lead with Alexander Noren, remained consistent in changing weather around the Castle Stuart links to stay in front at 17 under.

Anders Hansen is Molinari's closest challenger after a 65, upstaging top-ranked playing partner Luke Donald (68), while Phil Mickelson also carded a 65 and is three shots back in a tie for fifth with three other players.

Noren was among that quartet at 14 under. The Swede, who shot a 70, kept pace with Molinari until a triple-bogey 8 on No. 12.