The wind, gusty but mainly from the East, whipped up, making it hands in the pockets time for many fans, but the action on-course continued to hot up.
Matt Fitzpatrick, Sheffield-born and No 4 in the world, joined South Korean player, Tom Kim, and Aussie pro, Min Woo Lee, at the top of the leader board on 13-under.
And, surprise, surprise, McIlroy, ten groups ahead, continued to charge. He was breathing down the necks of Kim, Fitzpatrick and Lee.
The world No 2 moved on 12-under after 13 holes, the Northern Irishman having won here in 2023, having shot six-under on the day so far.
Former US college star, 25-year-old Johnny Keefer, minus-ten overnight, moved onto 12-under. The chase for the title was well and truly on.
MCILROY’S ARMY: The huge crowd at the first to hep Rory on his way. Picture Nigel Duncan
