Adam Scott refuses to lose The Open Championship hope

The world number one carded a three-under-par 69 at Hoylake on Saturday, taking him to six-under overall - well off the blistering pace set by McIlroy, who is eyeing a third major title.

The Australian, 34, said McIlroy will have a tough time of clinching the Claret Jug on Sunday, and Scott was not ruling himself out as a party spoiler.

"Well I mean if we have similar conditions [as] today there are low scores out there," Scott said.

"If you can get it going for 18 holes there's a chance for that major-scoring record to be broken.

"If you can post a number you never know because no matter how easy you might think it is, it's a lot harder with the pressure of a major."

Scott said the opportunities to gain shots in the final few holes at the links course meant McIlroy would be under pressure until the end.

"It's pretty exciting. If you're a few [shots] back you're in it," Scott said.

"Two eagle chances and a legitimate birdie chance down 17 when the wind is down like it is then lots can happen.

"If it's really windy then certainly lots can happen.

"I think probably a good mindset would be that you're not out of it tomorrow and if you're a few back you've got a good chance."

On his third round, Scott - who reeled off five birdies in eight holes after a double-bogey at the 10th - said his putter failed him early in the day.

"I played well and I putted so poorly on the first 10 holes, I missed every chance I gave myself and then got in a spot of bother by the green on the 10th," the Queenslander said.

"I was pretty frustrated at that point but with 26 holes left to play in soft conditions I know I'm playing well and can create the chances.

"If I can make some [putts], I can climb back up there and at least I made some in the last few holes."