Rory McIlroy in the mix at Canada Open after 'good day's work'

The Holywood native lies in a tie for third.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland tees off on the 11th hole during the first round of the Canadian Open. Pic: Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press via AP

Rory McIlroy returned from a brief sabbatical and shook off a slow start to put in “a good day’s work” as he fired an opening-round 66 at the RBC Canadian Open which left him in an early tie for third.

Returning to the scene of the first of his back-to-back Canadian wins at Hamilton Golf and Country Club, McIlroy joined defending champion Nick Taylor and another home favourite, Taylor Pendrith, in a marquee morning grouping that had patrons pouring through the gates at first light.