Conor O’Rourke leads Ireland's Links Trophy raiding party

Conor O’Rourke will spearhead the Irish attack as 16 stars travel to Scotland for the start of St Andrews Links Trophy today.

Naas man O’Rourke won an exciting battle with Sandy Scott in last year’s tournament, pipping the Scot to the title by one stroke with 275, and is back to defend his crown.

However, his preparation took a hit as he finished tied for 34th at the Carrick Neill Scottish Men’s Open Championship last week at Western Gailes.