Garth Mulroy in the third round of the BMW Italian Open presented by CartaSi. Picture by Getty ImagesShane Lowry believes he has the game and the confidence to chase down his first victory as a professional in the final round of the BMW Italian Open.

Richard Bland in the second round of the BMW Italian Open presented by CartaSi. Picture Getty ImagesShane Lowry produced his first bogey-free round for five months to join Gareth Maybin in leading the Irish challenge in the BMW Italian Open.

Sweden’s Joel Sjohom leads the Italian Open after an opening 64 in Turin. Picture: Fran Caffrey/www.golffile.ieGareth Maybin gave himself an early 32nd birthday present when he fired a six-under par 66 to share third place behind leader Joel Sjoholm in the BMW Italian Open in Turin.

Darren Clarke style. Photo: Eoin Clarke/Golffile.ieIreland’s quartet of challengers are outside the cut mark entering the second round of the BMW Italian Open.

Darren Clarke and Damien McGrane shot one under 71s but that was still only good enough for a share of 72nd place at Royal Park Golf & Country Club near Turin.