Rory McIlroy insists gap not ‘insurmountable’ after slow start to Masters

Rory McIlroy is seven shots off the lead after the first round of the Masters (Matt Slocum/AP)

Rory McIlroy insisted he was not left facing an “insurmountable” challenge after a frustrating opening round of the 87th Masters.

McIlroy made history as he gave what is believed to be the first in-play interview at Augusta National as he played the ninth hole,  but could only produce a level-par 72 to lie seven shots off the lead.