Raymond Russell stays in title hunt

Raymond Russell sits in a share of second place heading into the closing round of the Allianz Tour's Grand Final at Barbaroux in France.

The 38-year-old, fresh from securing a return to the European Tour last weekend, continued his good form with a four-under 68 for a six-under 138.

Russell, who highlighted an eventful round with a pair of eagle-3s on his front nine, is four shots behind former Amateur champion Julien Gurrier, who powered away from the field with a 66 for 134.

Russell, 38, currently leads the Allianz Tour's order of merit and is on course to cement his position at the top and claim a place in next year's French Open.

Perth's Gavin Dear posted a 71 for a 142 and a share of 12th.