McIlroy Sets Pace

The ‘Big 3’ all remain in contention but it’s Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy who leads the way in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. The world number seven carded a 65 complete with eight birdies to reach seven under and lead by two.

Martin Kaymer and Lee Westwood both remain well in contention just four shots back on three under. They played in the same group as 14-time major winner Tiger Woods who eagled the final hole to reach -1 and keep his own hopes of victory just about intact. The former world number one’s late recovery has re-invigorated interest in him as a 14/1 shot with Bet365.

There was actually a three shot swing between Woods and Westwood on the 18th hole as the Englishman dropped his first shot of the day just as the American pounced. But this was still the day when Westwood returned to form and his best price of 8/1 with StanJames is someway shorter than the pre-tournament betting. The ever-consistent Kaymer is just 9/2 with Boylesports. But it’s McIlroy who starts the next round as the new favourite at just 9/4 with the same bookie.

The surprise of the day came from forgotten man Sergio Garcia who shot a competitive 67 to lie second. The Spaniard has slid all the way down the rankings to number 79 and hasn’t won since 2008. He is now a 14/1 shot with Boylesports.