Ireland’s Paddy Gribben continued the good work he started in the Novotel French Open to lie just three shots behind the leaders after the third round.
The former Walker Cup player carded a third consecutive two-under par round of 68 and lies in a tie for 11th on six-under par.
The pace is being set by the vastly experienced pair of Jose Maria Olazabal and Contsantino Rocca, who share the lead on nine-under par.
Rocca, who is looking for his first win since 1999, shot a six-under par 64 to move into contention in this rain hampered tournament in Lyon.
Rocca is joined by the tournament favourite Jose Maria Olazabal after he carded a four-under par 66.The Spaniard, who earlier in the week said the Ryder Cup was not his main priority, would boost his chances of automatic selection by moving up to sixth in the standings if victorious today.
Those who made the cut are forced to cram in 36 holes today due the rain delays which took place on the Sangliers course during the opening three days.
Of the three other Irish players to make the cut, Philip Walton is the best placed.The Malahide player carded a two-under 68 to move to three-under, whilePaul McGinley is one shot further back after shooting a 69.
Gary Murphy slipped back to two-over with a three-over par 73 this morning.