Adam Scott plans on attacking the pin early in the final round to put the heat on the Australian Masters front-runners.

Despite being four shots off the lead Scott still feels he is a strong chance of winning his third successive Masters title as long as he can get a fast start at Metropolitan golf course.

The world No.2 admitted he was “battling” to find any momentum, forced to settle for a one-under 71 to be in a tie for eighth at four under.

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South Australian Paul Spargo is the leader at eight under, one shot clear of Queenslander Michael Wright who led over the first two rounds.

Victorian amateur Lucas Herbert, 18, sits third with Nick Cullen and James Nitties, after setting a new course record with his seven-under 65.

Former US Open champion Geoff Ogilvy will also be in the mix after a 71 left him at five under.

Scott says he needs to go low early to pressure the leaders.

“Anyone sitting in my position tomorrow is going out with no pressure,” Scott said.

“If I can get off to a fast start and somehow be within a couple of the lead when I’m turning and they’re teeing off five or six holes behind…

“Posting a (low) number is a big thing in a golf tournament with some tough finishing holes here.”

Scott admitted his presence climbing the leaderboard could have an impact on those ahead.

“It makes them think and thinking can be dangerous in golf.”

Scott lamented leaving a few putts short but said he couldn’t afford to in the final round.

“I need to get bolder.

“I’ve been a little cautious but I can’t afford to be tomorrow.”

Spargo, who quit the game temporarily in 2009 to be a plumber, has had good recent form finishing tied for third at last month’s WA Open.

As well as gusting winds he and Wright were under extra pressure when they were put on the clock in the closing holes by officials for Spargo’s slow play.

The 34-year-old, who is world ranked 1126, was excited to lead the field into the final round.

“The more you put yourself up there in contention and playing with the leaders you get used to it so all the experience will definitely help,” Spargo said.

“I’ve come a long way in a couple of years and my game’s been good so I’ve done my time and this is the next step.”

Herbert took advantage of some perfect morning conditions with eight birdies in 10 holes en route to his record 65.

“I was quite fortunate to get out before the weather really hit,” Herbert said.

“That wind was really tough on the last four holes.”

AAP