Rory McIlroy's signs of progress pale beside Scottie Scheffler masterclass

Scheffler leads The Open on 10-under after a seven-under second round. McIlroy is sevens shots off the American. 

Rory McIlroy said he feels like his game is "definitely good enough to make a run" during the final two rounds at The Open. Pic: Peter Byrne/PA Wire.

Rory McIlroy’s tenth birthday present was a round of golf here at Royal Portrush. In 2006, the 16-year old McIlroy shot a course record 61 on the old Dunluce Course. Winning an Open Championship at this place would cement that love affair.

That’s still possible, if highly improbable.