THE LINKS EFFECT

Irresistible Rory feeling hot ahead of Portrush assault

- by CRAIG SWAN

RORY MCILROY is ready for his home challenge at Royal Portrush this week despite missing out on the Scottish Open.

World No.2 McIlroy was unable to wrap his hands around the trophy for a second time as a final-day 68 left him tied second behind winner Chris Gotterup.

But in terms of the feelgood factor and the key aspects in his game needed to succeed in links golf ahead of The Open this week, McIlroy was fulfilled.

The Northern Irishman said: "It's been a great week. I'm happy with where my game is. The way I played over the weekend, the shots that I hit, how I controlled my ball flight.

"It has been a great week. Missing the trophy, that's about it.