Return of the Macs as Rory and Graeme shoot strong opening rounds
Superb Masters starts for NI duo
Rory McIlroy believes there is more to come from him after a good start to the British Masters yesterday.
The World Number six is aiming to finish the season on a high after what has been a shocking run of form.
On Day One at Close House in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, the four-time major winner showed some of his old sparkle – carding a three-under par 67 round.
That was his best start to a tournament since March and his joint lowest score this year.
It puts him just four shots off the leaders.
However, it was not completely without incident with the Holywood man remarkably saving par eight holes in after a spectator found his ball in the rough.
He said: “I've been seeing some positives over my game in the last week as I've practiced," McIlroy said. "My iron play is starting to get better. Wedge play is starting to get better.”
McIlroy tees off again just before lunch-time.
Meanwhile, it was an even better opener for Graeme McDowell who finished one shot ahead on 66.
The Portrush man was in fine form and could have produced and even more memorable score after he reached the 18th hole just one shot behind the leaders.
But he took four putts to complete the 18th and finished with with a double bogey five.
McDowell began his second day a short time ago. He is currently through two holes on level par.