Ian Mallon: The real Rory McIlroy belatedly steps up after nightmare start

The scenes on McIlroy’s final hole and a second birdie in a row were astonishing

WATCHING BRIEF: The crowd looks on as Rory McIlroy chips onto the 10th green on day one of the Irish Open.  Picture: Inpho/Ben Brady

For a player whose relationship with the Irish Open can be as inconsistent as some of his driving was at the K Club on Thursday, there’s no doubting just how vital Rory McIlroy is to this championship.

You only have to take in the sheer size of the crowds which followed him from early morning, around this magnificently set-up course, to appreciate the value he brings to this tournament — and this was only day one.