McIlroy finishes strong to share lead with rival Reed at Dubai Desert Classic

American golfer Patrick Reed branded Rory McIlroy 'an immature child' as the war of words between the pair rumbled on during the week prior to the Dubai Desert Classic.

HITTING HIS STRIDE: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland tees off on the 12th hole during the first round of the Dubai Desert Classic. Pic: AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili

Rory McIlroy produced a stunning display of golf on the final three holes to finish day one of the Dubai Desert Classic neck-on-neck with rival Patrick Reed. 

The pair have been swapping verbals in the last number of days following a tee-throwing incident, now commonly referred to as 'Tee-Gate', with LIV Golf's Reed branding Rory McIlroy 'an immature child' as the war of words between the pair rumbled on during the week.