Italian Open: Richie Ramsay moves into contention

Richie Ramsay is looking for his third career victory

Richie Ramsay moved into contention at the Italian Open with a fine third round of 66, threatening Stephen Gallacher's hopes of securing automatic Ryder Cup qualification.

Ramsay now lies second, the position that fellow Scot Gallacher must finish in order to claim a spot on Paul McGinley's team.

Gallacher is four shots behind Ramsay in sixth after he shot 69.

South Africa's Hennie Otto saw his lead cut to two strokes after a modest 71.

"Stevie is a fantastic player," said Ramsay. "I would hate to be the person to deny him a place in the Ryder Cup, but I know if it comes down to it, he plays to win and that's the same attitude I have to have."

Ramsay is seeking the third tournament win of his career having also triumphed at the South African Open in 2010 and European Masters in 2012.

Gallacher is aiming to supplant Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell for the ninth and final automatic place on the European team.

Captain McGinley missed the cut in Turin but stayed to watch the final two rounds before naming his three wild cards at Wentworth on Tuesday.