Strong finish glosses over average first day at the Irish Open admits Rory McIlory

Meanwhile, former Ryder Cup captain Thomas Bjorn rolled back the years with an opening 66 at the K Club.

Rory McIlroy putts for a birdie on the 9th green. Pic Credit ©INPHO/Ben Brady

Rory McIlroy acknowledged a lack of practice was a factor as he carded a first-round 69 made pretty by two closing birdies.

Not in action since last month’s Tour Championship in Atlanta and nursing a lower back strain, the 34-year-old finished with a flourish to make a mediocre day better on day one of the Irish Open.