ENGLISH rookie Oliver Wilson will take a slender lead into the final day of the Holden New Zealand Open tomorrow.

Wilson carded a third round 68 in gusting winds at Gulf Harbour for a 17-under-par total of 199, one shot ahead of compatriot Miles Tunnicliff.

Australia's Richard Green carded a bogey-free 69 to lie third on 14 under, the left-hander the only player in the 79-strong field not to drop a shot.

Overnight leader Niclas Fasth struggled to a 75 to drop four shots off the lead, the former Ryder Cup player slumping to a 40 on the back nine.

Wilson is playing just his fifth European Tour event after earning his card from the Challenge Tour last season, the 24-year-old from Mansfield turning professional in September 2003 after helping Britain and Ireland retain the Walker Cup.

Worcestershire's John Bickerton was tied for 52nd place after a third round level par 72 left him on four under par.

The Droitwich Golf Club member started well with three birdies in the first six holes, but bogeys at the 11th, 15th and 16th left him in the pack.