Ian Poulter rages at Shinnecock set-up and American fans at US Open

Ian Poulter took to Twitter on Saturday evening to lambast the USGA about the pin placements at Shinnecock Hills following a controversial third round of the US Open.

The USGA was forced to apologise for the set-up at the end of a day in which the earlier starters had a significant advantage, recalling memories of 2004, when tournament organisers lost control of the same course on the final day.

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Daniel Berger and Tony Finau started the day 11 shots off the pace, but both took advantage of the easier early conditions to fire four-under 66s which proved enough to share the overnight lead on three over and earn a place in Sunday's final pairing.

Poulter's 76 left him four shots back on seven over and he was unimpressed with the apology made by USGA executive director Mike Davis, asking "how can this team keep doing this without consequences?" on social media.

He then asked "Did Bozo set the course up?" when Sunday's tee-times were announced.

The 42-year-old was not alone in his disgust, with Rafa Cabrera Bello also tweeting his dissatisfaction while Tyrrell Hatton suggested golf fans should be singing "you're getting sacked in the morning" to organisers.

Poulter also had plenty to say about the New York crowds, suggesting their behaviour had crossed a line following shouts of "USA!" after his bogey at the 16th and wondering what the scenes might be like at the 2024 Ryder Cup, which will be held nearby at Bethpage Black.

Poulter tees off at 6.18pm alongside South Africa's Branden Grace, with Hatton in the pair behind.