McIlroy backs PGA stance on rebels as he kicks off Canadian Open defence with a 66

'These guys have broken rules and...because of that there are going to be consequences,' McIlroy says after solid start in Toronto, with Lowry also in frame 

Bridging the gap: Justin Thomas of the USA, left to right, Corey Conners of Canada, caddy Danny Sahl and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland walk across a bridge on the 14th hole during the first round of the Canadian Open in Toronto. Pic: Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press via AP

A lot is being asked of Rory McIlroy this week. Until Thursday morning, most of it was off the course. Which is perhaps at least partly why McIlroy looked to be thoroughly enjoying the challenge of defending his Canadian Open title on a soggy opening morning in Toronto as he shot a four-under 66 to put himself up among the round one leaders.

Having both spent the early part of the week acting as voices for the other side in the LIV golf drama, McIlroy and playing partner Justin Thomas got back to what they know best in the early drizzle at St. Georges. The Holywood native hit six birdies and two bogeys while Thomas couldn’t take as much advantage of the conditions, carding a one-under 69.