Masters 2011 Round 2: Will Rory McIlroy hold his lead?
[UPDATE Friday 3 p.m.: After the first nine holes, Rory McIlory is 10-under par, and still leading.]
Rory McIlroy has been here before. He understands the pressures and expectations.
Yesterday, he posted a 65 for a share of the lead at Augusta National with Alvaro Quiros.
But the difference between McIlroy and Quiros: Twice before Rory has lead majors after the first round. He posted a 63 at the British Open last year, but followed with an 80 in the second round.
Quiros has not made it past Round 2 at Augusta in his past two attempts.
McIlroy finished third at both the British Open and the PGA Championship last year. The 21-year-old from Northern Ireland is confident and ready.
“I wouldn’t say it [the 65 at Augusta Thursday] was as spectacular as my 63 at St. Andrews, but it was very solid from start to finish,” said McIlroy yesterday. “I think what happened at St. Andrews will be a massive help to me. Looking back, it was a valuable lesson in my development.
“I feel like I’m better prepared to tee off in the second round of a major with the lead.
Meanwhile, the 28-year-old Spaniard, a five-time winner on the European Tour, says: "My target [today] is make the cut. It would be stupid to think about shooting 65 again because it's not my way."
After a perfect day of conditions Thursday, where 30 of the 99 golfers shot under par, the temperature is expected to rise today, making the greens a little faster. The pin placement will be a little tougher, too.
Quiros tees off at 10:41 a.m. today. He'll be paired with Venezuelan Jhonattan Vegas (even) and American Gary Woodland (-3)
McIlroy tees of at 12:42 p.m. today. He'll be paired with Australian Jason Day (even), and American Rickie Fowler (-2).
Quiros and McIlroy have a two-shot lead over the nearest in the field.
Who will hold the lead coming out of Round 2?
