Rory McIlroy stages back-nine rally to remain in Open de France contention

Rory McIlroy squats to line up a shot during the first round of The Masters on April 7, 2016
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Rory McIlroy stages a remarkable recovery from an error-strewn front nine to haul himself back into contention on day three of the 2016 Open de France.

Rory McIlroy has overcome a poor start on day three of the 2016 Open de France to keep his title bid alive.

The 27-year-old was part of a five-way tie for the lead overnight after a second-round 66 at Le Golf National.

A double-bogey at the opening hole, however, set the tone for an outward 40, but he made five birdies on the back nine to finish with a score of one-under 70.

Thongchai Jaidee leads the field in Paris after a solid round of three-under 68, while Wang Jeunghun and McIlroy sit two shots behind the frontrunner.

Defending champion Bernd Wiesberger also shot one-under on Saturday, and he sits one shot behind Wang and McIlroy.

Rory McIlroy hits his tee shot on the 15th hole during the second round of the World Golf Championships-Dell Match Play at the Austin Country Club on March 24, 2016
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