Shanghai, Nov 2 : United States golfer Dustin Johnson remained in the driver's seat despite carding two double bogeys to sign for a third round six-under-par 66 at the WGC-HSBC Champions here Saturday.

The American Ryder Cup star compiled a three-day total of 18-under-par 198 to take a three-shot lead over defending champion Ian Poulter of England who surged into contention with a 63.

Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell trailed Poulter by a single shot after a spectacular 64 saw him take third place at the $8.5 million showpiece.