Australia's Cameron Davis almost played himself out of the running at the 3M Open in Minneapolis today, then promptly leapt back into contention with a great finish.

Davis, 25, one of this country's brightest prospects, had a see-sawing day at TPC Twin Cities, ultimately shooting his third consecutive round in the 60s to be tied-sixth at 11-under par, four shots from the lead going into the final round.

But the Sydneysider, playing his second full season on the American tour, had to battle to reach his destination, starting at the first hole where he made bogey from a fairway trap, then finding water off the tee to give back another shot at the third.

When Davis bogeyed the par-three 13th hole from a greenside bunker, his fourth bogey of the day, he was off the pace. But three straight birdies from close range at the 14th, 15th and 16th hauled him back into the mix. His approach at the par-four 15th from the deep, right rough almost ended up in the cup.

He signed for a 69 knowing that he will need something low to win his first tournament on the main tour. Americans Michael Thompson and Richy Werenski lead the way at 15-under par.

Masters champion Charl Schwartzel of South Africa is ahead of him and so is Presidents Cup star Tony Finau.

But there are only five players ahead of Davis as he begins his final round.

Another Australian, Aaron Baddeley, is tied-45th through three rounds. Meanwhile on the Korn Ferry Tour, Jamie Arnold is tied-ninth through three rounds of the tournament in Missouri.

3M Open leaderboard