Rory tees off last at Augusta
Rory McIlroy must wait that little bit longer to begin his pursuit of the US Masters and a career Grand Slam after he was drawn to make the final tee shot of the opening round at Augusta tomorrow.
McIlroy will play with Martin Kaymer and Bill Haas, teeing off at 7.01pm Irish time, while Shane Lowry has been drawn in the group ahead with Angel Cabrera and JB Holmes.
McIlroy can complete the full set
And McIlroy, who has gone under the radar in his preparation for the tournament more so than usual, is confident this is the week he completes the full set. Speaking to Philip Reid at Augusta, he said: “This is the one I wish I caught earlier, I guess.
“I’ve got a great game for here. I hit it high. I can land the ball soft. I’ve got decent touch around the greens... You would think this is a golf course I could definitely win on.”
Irish Times Fantasy Golf
Before the main event begins, make sure you join the Irish Times/Allianz Fantasy Golf competition.
Gordon D’Arcy on Connacht
In his column today Gordon D'Arcy looks at Connacht, who have been the sole shining light in domestic Irish rugby this season and are the one province left in European competition.
And D’Arcy believes now is the time for Pat Lam’s side to pick up some silverware, before other sides begin to adapt to their style of play, he writes: “Every Pro12 defence coach will be spending the summer planning on ways to stop Connacht.
“Some will be successful. But nothing can stop them, or any team for that matter, when they generate quick ball and (Bundee) Aki takes it over the gainline.”
Champions League
Elsewhere Atletico Madrid's brave 10-man resistance was ended at the Nou Camp last night as Barcelona came from behind to win 2-1, while Bayern Munich beat Benfica in the opening leg of their quarter final.
What to watch out for:
Tonight PSG take on Manchester City in the gulf money derby (7.45pm ko, RTE 2) and Real Madrid play Wolfsburg (7.45pm ko, BT Sport 2).
