Kinsale teenager John Murphy leads Irish charge in Aberdeen

Kinsale teenager John Murphy led a quintet of Irishmen safely through to the matchplay stages of the 123rd Amateur Championship at Royal Aberdeen and Murcar Links.

The Maynooth University student has been in sparkling form in recent weeks with his dramatic St Andrews Links Trophy triumph, while his one-under-par 69 at Murcar Links yesterday ensured he was the leading Irishman in stroke play qualifying.

Following on from his opening three-over 74 at Royal Aberdeen, Murphy shot out of the blocks with a birdie on two and a stunning eagle three at the par-five fourth hole.