Golf: Fowler leads Barclays as Ryder Cup race intensifies

Rickie Fowler waves to the gallery during the third round of The Barclays in the PGA Tour FedExCup Play-Offs on the Black Course on Aug 27, 2016 PHOTO: AFP

(REUTERS) - American Olympic team-mates Rickie Fowler and Patrick Reed will have one eye on victory and another on the Ryder Cup in the final round of The Barclays on New York's Long Island on Sunday.

Fowler has a one-stroke lead over his compatriot after Saturday's third round in the first of four events making up the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup play-off series.

Extending his bogey-free streak to 45 holes, Fowler sank a four-foot birdie at the last to edge ahead with a three-under 68 on the tough Bethpage Black course in Farmingdale.

He posted a nine-under 204 total while overnight leader Reed carded a 71 to sit alone in second place. Australian Adam Scott (65) was a further shot adrift on seven-under after finding his putting touch to post the lowest round of the tournament.

Scott was also helped on his way when he holed out for an eagle from 95 yards at the first hole.

As well as the victory, Fowler and Reed are vying for Ryder Cup selection. The top eight on the points list on Sunday night automatically make the American team to face holders Europe in five weeks.

Reed is currently eighth with Fowler four places below.

Fowler probably needs a top-three finish on Sunday to lock down a spot and avoid having to sweat out banking on being called up as one of captain Davis Love's four wild-card picks.

"I think it's pretty simple. We've just got to go take care of business tomorrow," Fowler told reporters.

"It's been a while since I've been in this position... I'm looking forward to it. It's been a long time coming."

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