Howell's title hopes still alive in thunderous South Africa (From This Is Wiltshire)

TWO closing birdies allowed David Howell to bring himself to within three shots of the lead heading into tomorrow's final round at the Tshwane Open in South Africa.

The Swindon star was three-under through 14 holes at Copperleaf Golf & Country Estate today when thunderstorms caused a two-hour break in play.

But the inclement weather clearly did not affect the game of the Broome Manor pro unduly, as upon returning to the course he carded two pars before making gains at 17 and 18 respectively.

The 37-year-old finished on five-under and is 13-under for the tournament overall, putting him in seventh.

Four players are tied for the lead, three of them home players - Darren Fichardt, Charl Coetzee and Dawie van der Walt - alongside Chile's Mark Tullo.

Swindon's Howell, who was four shots down following the conclusion of the second round, is chasing his first European Tour victory in seven years.