Rory McIlroy Leads Irish Open After Strong Third Round

Rory McIlroy continues his bid to win the Irish Open in his home county of Northern Ireland after he carded a third-round 69 securing a one-shot lead heading into the final day at Royal County Down. McIlroy started the day two shots behind Matteo Manassero and overcame blustery conditions to finish with an eagle, two birdies and two bogeys, positioning himself ahead of the Italian.

Robert MacIntyre, the Scottish Open champion and Rasmus Hojgaard, a four-time DP World Tour winner tied for third place, three shots behind McIlroy. Northern Ireland’s Tom McKibbin sits six shots back after a 70 while Shane Lowry’s challenge faded; the 2019 Open champion fell to two-over with a 74 after starting with three birdies. On Saturday, McIlroy posted the joint-lowest score of the day.

He eagled the par-five first hole for the second day in a row but bogeyed the difficult par-four fifth for the third time this week. However, he bounced back with a birdie on the short par-three and made a crucial 32-foot putt on the 13th hole. Although he finished with a bogey on the 18th, Rory McIlroy expressed satisfaction with his round and the position it puts him in for Sunday.

Manassero, who shot a 70 with three birdies and four bogeys will join McIlroy in the final round. MacIntyre, who has already won twice on the PGA Tour this year aims to make a strong push on the final day. Hojgaard, Jordan Smith and Erik van Rooyen also remain in contention, adding to the competitive field for the last round.