BMW Masters: Alexander Levy takes four-shot Shanghai lead

Alexander Levy is looking for his third European Tour win of 2014

Alexander Levy carded a 63 to take a four-shot lead after the penultimate round of the BMW Masters in Shanghai.

The 24-year-old Frenchman, who has won twice on the European Tour in 2014, birdied nine of his first 15 holes to reach 22-under-par for the tournament.

Jamie Donaldson, who sealed the winning Ryder Cup point, moved into second with eight birdies and an eagle in a 62.

Justin Rose is seven shots off the lead after his 64 and Graeme McDowell is 10 adrift following a round of 68.

Levy, who won his maiden title with the China Open in April and added the rain-shortened Portugal Masters last month, began day two at the Lake Malaren club in Shanghai a shot behind overnight leader Nicolas Colsaerts.

But while the Belgian finished with a double bogey for a 73 to slip into a share of fifth place nine shots back, Levy birdied his opening three holes and did not drop a shot throughout the day.

Donaldson's spectacular round was further enhanced by an eagle at the 16th when his approach pitched a few inches beyond the flag and spun back into the hole.

The Shanghai event is the first of four tournaments in the European Tour's Final Series, which culminates at the World Tour Championship in Dubai from 20 to 23 November.