Fisher, Carter and Alker share Dutch Open lead

ZANDVOORT, Netherlands, Aug 26 (Reuters) Britons David Carter and Ross Fisher and New Zealander Steve Alker shared a two-shot lead on nine-under-par 201 after Dutch Open third round.

Carter, the overnight leader, looked as though he had reclaimed top spot with birdies on the 16th and 17th holes but the Englishman bogeyed the 18th for a one-over 71 to drop back into the tie Yesterday.

Both his co-leaders are looking for maiden full tour titles.

Fisher, who was sharing the lead in the tour's flagship event, the PGA Championship at Wentworth in May with a round to go, carded a 68.

Alker, struggling to retain his card for next year, posted a 69.

Fisher, 26, in his second year on tour, also had a chance to win the Dubai Desert Classic in early February but, playing alongside world number one Tiger Woods, had to settle for fifth place. In the PGA, a collapse with an 84 plummeted the Englishman to a tie for 39th.

He is hoping his Dubai and Wentworth experiences will stand him in good stead in Sunday's final round at Kennemer.

''Dubai was an amazing experience,'' Fisher told a news conference, ''shooting two 65s and playing with Ernie (Els) on the Saturday and Tiger on Sunday. A lot of guys wait their whole careers to do that and this is only my second year on tour.

''Wentworth was fantastic for three days and disastrous for one day. I know I'm ready to win.'' Carter cited the conditions for a stumbling start that cost him his lead but was happy he was able to battle back.

''It was a bit nerve-wracking for a period because the wind was in a totally different direction to the first three days,'' Carter told reporters.

Alker, languishing 184th on the European money-list, can rid himself of his card worries with a solid finish to the week.

''I was happy I could hang in there,'' Alker told reporters, ''and if can hole some putts I might have a chance.'' Bernhard Langer, who turns 50 on Monday, lies four strokes off the pace. The German is looking to become the European Tour's oldest winner by claiming his 43rd tour title.

REUTERS BJR RK1003