Rory McIlroy is one of three leaders of the Genesis Scottish Open going into the weekend on a score of nine-under, but there are two other threats only one shot behind.
The 37-year-old Northern Irish star shot a 66 in the second round to be level with English player, Jordon Smith, who went out early to shoot the lowest score of the day, a sensational 63 over the Renaissance Club course, and Tom Kim of South Korea. He carded a 66.
Tucked in a shot behind are English star, Matt Fitzpatrick, who also went out early and shot a 65, and Min Woo Lee (Australia) who shot 66, both on eight under, Fitzpatrick firing five straight birdies on his outward nine to a score of 65.
Nicolai Von Dellingshausen (Germany) shot 64, the second lowest round of the day, to move on to minus seven along with and Dutch player, Joost Luiten, who shot a 66, Scottish-born, Robert McIntyre, and defending champion, Chris Gotterup from America, Victor Perez (France), Keita Nakajima (Japan) and Sudarshan Yellamarju (Canada).
McIlroy said that the wind was a real factor in his round and added: “It would have been nice to have been a couple better.”
Robert McIntyre from Oban said coming back here is special and the crowd is on your side. You play links golf and you know what you are doing.”
Chris Gotterup, the defending champion, said his bogey on 18 was unfortunate but he said it was nice to be back at The Renaissance Club and “cool” to be playing on the East Lothian links again.
