The Open 2013: Clarke and McDowell nine off lead at Muirfield
Last updated on .From the section Golf
Darren Clarke and Graeme McDowell lie nine shots behind leader Lee Westwood after the third round of the Open Championship at Muirfield.
The Northern Ireland pair ended the day as two of several players tied for 25th place on six over par.
Clarke carded a five-over 76, which included a run of two bogeys and a double bogey from the 13th to the 15th.
McDowell posted a 73, with three birdies and five bogeys, including a five at the final hole.
Westwood fired a 70 to enjoy a two-shot lead over Americans Hunter Mahan and Tiger Woods going into Sunday's final round.
Masters champion Adam Scott is a further shot behind in fourth.
McDowell admitted to being "frustrated" for periods during his round on Saturday.
"I hit some good shots onto the greens, but didn't hole many putts," said the former US Open champion.
"I was disappointed to be put on the clock on the fourth hole, that didn't help, as it's an extremely difficult course with some tough pin positions.
"It's very tricky, but it's a great test of golf, and a fair one, apart from the bunkers which I believe are a little bit unfair."
"I played ok, but made no putts at all," lamented 2011 Open champion Clarke.
"We were told on the 12th hole that we were out of position and after that I made two bogeys and a double bogey over the the next three holes, but we're professionals and should be able to deal with it."
Rory McIlroy missed the cut after ending the first two days on 12 over, while Ballyclare's Gareth Maybin also failed to reach the final two days.
