Denmark's Thomas Bjorn continued his love affair with Loch Lomond today, firing a five-under-par 66 to set up a last-day title shootout with his friend Darren Clarke at the Scottish Open.

Clarke, who led by three strokes at the start of the day, carded a level-par 71 to finish alongside his former Ryder Cup team mate on 202, 11-under-par.

Two strokes back in a tie for third place were English pair Benn Barham and David Drysdale and Argentina's Andres Romero. Damien McGrane is in a group one shot further back on eight under after the Meath man matched Clarke's 71.

Bjorn was one who strode onto centre stage at the scene of his unforgettable first European Tour victory 10 years ago.

"It (Loch Lomond) has got a huge place in my heart and always will have," said Bjorn. "Any pro will tell you their first victory is the most special one.

"I don't think we play a finer venue on the tour. When it is like this and the weather is fine, it is spectacular. You won't find a place like it anywhere, it is very special," added the Dane who registered six birdies and one bogey.

Paul McGinley was one of the earlier starters and the Ryder Cup star moved to four under after his second 69 of the week. David Higgins was way off the pace after his three over 74 left the Kerry man two over.

The tournament is the final warm-up event in Europe ahead of next week's British Open at Hoylake.

Meanwhile Justin Leonard today informed The R&A that regrettably he has to withdraw from The Open as a result of the imminent birth of his next child. His place in The Open is taken by Simon Khan (England) the next non-exempt player in the Official World Golf Ranking.