The American golfer Billy Horschel, who is seeking his first career PGA Tour victory, is in the box-seat after the third round at the $US6.2 million Texas Open.
Horschel posted a two-under 70 to maintain a two-shot lead finishing 54 holes at 10-under 206.
Jim Furyk carded a three-under 69 to move into a tie for second place, and two-time major winner Rory McIlroy remained in the hunt by posting a one-under 71 to get into a tie for fourth.
McIlroy is tied with two others at six-under 210.
Steven Bowditch's hopes of maiden Masters appearance were all but dashed by a bogey-riddled third round after starting the day tied second.
The Australian is now nine off the lead and in a tie for 19th.
The winner in Texas receives a free pass into the first major of the season if they haven't already qualified.
