Crowd puller Rory sets up shoot-out

For only a second occasion this season Rory McIlroy confessed he could feel proud at the sight of his face appearing on advertising billboards and banners promoting this week’s Australian Open.

After a ‘wasted’ opening round, the tournament’s top overseas draw card delivered event organisers the assurance of record crowds over the final two days at Royal Sydney.

Masters champion Adam Scott is still at the controls following his course record opening effort and a steadfast second round 70 but McIlroy moved brilliantly into the co-pilot’s seat with his second equal lowest round of the season.