Rory McIlroy survived a tumultuous opening day in Los Angeles to take a seat proper close to the highest of the leaderboard on the Genesis Invitational – one shot shy of England’s Aaron Rai, who completed two holes shy of a full spherical.
The Northern Irishman endured rain, wind and a three-hour suspension of play to card a gap spherical rating of five-under 66.
The spotlight of his day was a stellar par-save on the sixth gap during which he chipped over the on-green bunker.
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Rory McIlroy was delighted along with his efficiency on day one of many Genesis Invitational regardless of having to beat points with a climate delay
McIlroy dropped only one shot on Thursday to hitch American Jacob Bridgeman on 5 beneath.
The duo had been being challenged by Rai earlier than play was suspended, with the Englishman set to renew his spherical on six-under par by way of 16 holes.
New Zealand’s Ryan Fox can also be within the hunt on 4 beneath, whereas England’s Marco Penge is amongst a crowd of seven gamers sitting a shot additional again.
Chatting with Sky Sports activities, McIlroy stated: “It was very blustery, clearly we had that delay, and the course after that was very, very moist, so it was having to regulate your trajectory and spin.
“The wind definitely got up those last few holes, which made it a little tricky as well.
“I used to be actually pleased with how I managed my ball flight on the market, and there was just a few holes on that again 9 that you just knew should you made a par, that was an excellent rating and you might transfer on.
“Overall, I’m very happy with today’s work and I’m in a great spot to build from, from here.
“To obtain a trophy from Tiger Woods on the 18th inexperienced on Sunday could be very cool. It is not one thing I’ve had the privilege to do but. Hopefully if I maintain taking part in properly I will have an opportunity to try this on Sunday.”
Watch continued coverage of The Genesis Invitational on Friday live on Sky Sports Golf from 3.15pm and Sky Sports Main Event from 10.30pm.
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