Dubai: Rory McIlroy still leads the Omega Dubai Desert Classic with a score of eleven under par from two-day scores of 65-68 at the 7301 yard 72 par Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club.
He leads Thomas Aiken and Sergio Garcia, who are both tied for second a shot behind and Steve Webster in third at eight under par.
McIlroy's round started poorly with a bogey on the third hole but birdies on seven, nine, 12, 15 and 18 saw the Irishman pick up where he left off from day one.
"I really hung in there and stayed patient and just sort of picked up my birdies when I could. I played really well. I think I was five under from the seventh onwards so I'm really pleased with the round and it sets me up for a good weekend."
In reference to Tiger Woods who finished his day at seven under tied for fifth McIlroy said, "I've never been in contention with Tiger up around the top of the leaderboard. So I don't really know what will happen."
"But it's a challenge that I look forward to and hopefully I can play well enough to just have a chance to win this thing going into the back nine on Sunday."
Meanwhile Aiken who shares second spot with Garcia at ten under 67-67 said, "I've played really consistently the last few days. I hit the ball in the right positions hit a lot of greens and gave myself a lot of birdie opportunities."
Flock of birdies
Aiken's round took in six birdies yesterday on three, six, eight, 10, 15 and 18 but he spoilt the otherwise perfect card with a bogey on 16.
"From tee to green I did everything right and ended up sinking a few putts as well so I guess it's just the way golf is supposed to be played."
Garcia meanwhile, who recorded a clean round with birdies on three, seven, 10, 15 and 16 said from two day scores also of 67-67, "It has been two good rounds but the tournament is not over. So I'm definitely looking forward to keeping it going."
