Alex Maguire blasts course record 65 to lead Close qualifiers

IN THE HUNT: Peter O'Keeffe of Douglas. Pic: Niall O'Shea.

Alex Maguire is gunning for his second big win of the year after carding a course-record, seven-under 65 to lead the qualifiers in the AIG Irish Men's Amateur Close at Headfort's New Course.

The Laytown and Bettystown star, who won the North of Ireland and Connacht Strokeplay last year before claiming the East of Ireland in June, claimed the silver medal by a shot from Malone's Matthew McClean, who shot 70, and Royal Dublin's Max Kennedy, who carded a 72, on five-under-par.