Strafan, Ireland – Rory McIlroy hit a 6-under 66 without a bogey and moved to competition after the second round of Ireland’s opening.
McIlroy jumped into third place share after making six birdies at the K club. Two of them came to the final two halls and began thrilling deep gallery following the Northern Irishman at Homecoming.
“Amazing – all day,” McIlroy said. “Even walking to range for today’s warm-up is absolutely incredible. I look forward to playing in that vibe for the next few days.”
World No. 2 will need to lead Lagergren, who led with 12 under par after 36 holes, and France’s Adrien Saddier, who added 66 to opening 67, with one stroke back.
Lagergren, 33, has a history with K clubs. Last year, when he played the Irish Challenge on the adjacent Palmer South Course, he filmed a course record of 63, then drilled a hole from the bunker to create an eagle on hole 72, earning a one-stroke victory.
“Ireland treats me a lot,” Lagergren said.
McIlroy was tied to 7 under with Thorbjorn Olesen (71), Daniel Hillier (66), and Alfredo Garcia-Heredia (65).
