JORDAN Smith is targeting a top-15 finish in the US PGA Championship as his dream major debut continued at Quail Hollow.

Bowood's Smith, who secured his place in the field with a maiden European Tour title in Germany a fortnight ago, carded a third round of 70 to finish two over par, a shot ahead of namesake and Open champion Jordan Spieth.

The highlight of the round for the Derry Hill man was an eagle from 18 feet after driving the green on the par-four 14th, which drew a huge reaction from the large crowds.

"I hit a perfect three-wood to about 20ft and managed to roll it in and the roar was just immense," said Smith, who played alongside compatriot Ian Poulter and American Jamie Lovemark. "I've never heard anything like it before, it was good fun out there.

"I've never met or played with Ian before. We had a lot of good chats on the way round and it was enjoyable.

"He's been key in the Ryder Cup and I love how he gets into it so he was definitely someone I looked up to and tried to follow for sure. He comes across as a very normal guy."

The Wiltshire man's week has also included nine holes of practice with Rory McIlroy and the 24-year-old is keen to secure a top-15 finish on Sunday which would book his place at Bellerive Country Club next year.

"I've loved every minute of it, it's my first major and I want to play many, many more so it's given me that appetite," Smith added. "Top 15 is a good aim for tomorrow definitely. I'll go out there and try and achieve that."