McIlroy takes lead in weekend at Dubai

Published Feb. 11, 2011 2:27 p.m. ET

foxsports

Rory McIlroy maintained the lead going into the weekend at the Dubai Desert Classic, shooting a 4-under 68 for a one-shot lead over Sergio Garcia and Thomas Aiken.

Tiger Woods shot a 66 to trail by four shots.

McIlroy started slowly with a bogey on the second then made five birdies in the last 12 holes. He birdied the final hole to take the lead.

Garcia, playing some of his best golf in months, had a chance to tie for the lead on the final hole. But he botched an easy chip that went across the green and nearly in the water before making a par putt.

South African Aiken shot a 67 to move into a tie for second.