SHANE LOWRY eased clear of his US Open rivals after a brilliant four-hole burst.
The Irishman finished off his third round in style to shoot 65 to move four strokes clear.
World No41 Lowry came into the day two shots clear but hit two birdies as his rivals faltered in the rain-hit tournament.
He will tee off again this evening for his final round aiming to stay in front of the chasing pack, which includes England’s Lee Westwood on two under.
None of the contenders have ever won a major, with last year’s US Open runner-up Dustin Johnson sitting in second place on three under.
After his round, Lowry told SkySports: “I’ve never felt this comfortable on the course in my life. I’m not sure it’s going to be the same on the first tee this afternoon but why not enjoy it while I’m here. There’s no place in the world I’d rather be.
“This course is about playing for your pars and knock in your birdies when you get your chance.
“There’s no reason why I can’t go out there and play well this afternoon.”
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Westwood – who has suffered a series of near misses in majors – echoed Lowry’s views and hailed the tricky Oakmont course.
He added: “It’s a great golf course. You get what you deserve around here.
“I’ve been in this position before and haven’t won one yet so I haven’t been doing the right things at the right times.
“My short game is a lot better than it has been and that’s probably what’s let me down in the past.
“I think it’ll be like playing down a motorway this afternoon and there’ll be some smelly flags out there.”
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