FedExCup: Rory McIlroy in contention

Report by Anand Datla

September 14, 2014: Rory McIlroy and Billy Horschel are neck and neck as they set up a grand finale to the season ending Tour Championship in Atlanta. Horschel will keep a close eye on his partner for the final round, for if neither McIlroy nor Chris Kirk win the event on Sunday, there is a big possibility that the American might walk away with the trophy and a big fat cheque for $10 million. McIlroy made a composed 67 to erase the difference between him and Horschel in the crucial third round at East Lake. Horschel made 69 as both men set up a grand showdown for the title and the cash that goes with it with a two shot lead over Jim Furyk and three on Chris Kirk.

McIlroy made a brilliant eagle at the 15th to highlight an impressive round under pressure. His round included three birdies, an eagle and two bogeys as he wiped away the two shot deficit he had on Horschel at the start of the day. Horschel was set for a 67 after making the turn at three under 32, but bogeys at the 10th and 13th pushed him back to 69 and into a share of the lead with McIlroy.

Kirk had opportunities to push forth, but a bogey at the first and a double at the sixth hole meant he was constantly playing catch up with the course. A lone birdie on the back nine – at the par-5 fifteenth could only cover some of the damage incurred as he signed off on a 1-over 71 to follow his 66 and 68 in the first two rounds.

“I’ve got a very good opportunity to do it tomorrow, and playing against not just Billy,” said McIlroy. “There’s a lot of guys that are in form on that leaderboard, Jim Furyk, Rickie Fowler. But it’s just another chance to win another big tournament, and I really want to take advantage of that.”

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