Rory McIlroy is one off a three-way lead at the Dubai Desert Classic after a 66.

The Ulsterman's 6-under leaves him right behind Englishmen Andy Sullivan and Lee Westwood, and Nicolas Colsaerts of Belgium, who all share top spot in the Emirates Golf Club clubhouse.

McIlroy is tied for fourth with Scot Stephen Gallagher, and Germans Martin Kaymer and Maximilian Kieffer.

Meathman Damien McGrane finished 1-under, while Graeme McDowell is 1-under after four.

Darren Clarke finished on 2-over. 

Rory McIlroy tees off on the 10th tee alongside Martin Kaymer and Andy Sullivan. #ODDC pic.twitter.com/0zrr93Rc98

— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) January 29, 2015