Italian teenager Matteo Manassero kept alive his hopes of making the Masters by moving to within a stroke of the lead before poor light halted play in the third round of the Hassan II Trophy in Morocco on Saturday.

Manassero picked up seven birdies, including three in succession from the 10th hole, to move into a share of second place at 11 under par through 16 holes on the Golf du Palais Royal course.

He must win to boost his ranking into the top 50 to play at Augusta National.

Damien McGrane of Ireland remained atop the leaderboard at 12 under after 10 holes.

Sharing second with the 18-year-old Manassero was Spaniard Jose Manuel Lara, who had completed 10 holes.

Michael Hoey of Northern Ireland was the clubhouse leader in carding a 65 that included an eagle and eight birdies to finish on 10 under.

A long delay on Friday caused by strong winds meant the second round did not finish until lunchtime on Saturday with 75 players making the cut. But when the third round commenced at 2pm local time, only 29 completed play.

Play will resume early on Sunday, with players going off from the first and 10th tees.