Irish Open: Fox is flawless, Lowry fails to fire

The highest-ranked player in the field, Shane Lowry couldn’t produce the exceptional form he has managed so often this season

QUICK OFF THE MARK: New Zealand's Ryan Fox at Mount Juliet Estate. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Wire.

New Zealand’s Ryan Fox delivered a flawless 64 to lead after day one of this year’s Horizon Irish Open but the prospect of a home win remains despite the absence this year of Rory McIlroy and a disappointing offering from pre-tournament favourite Shane Lowry.

The highest-ranked player in the field, Lowry couldn’t produce the exceptional form he has managed so often this season and he needs to find a spark second time around or a free weekend will be more as likely as a tilt at what would be a rare Offaly win in Kilkenny.