Rory McIlroy shot 1-under 70 in the first round of the British Open at Royal Portrush that is also serving as a homecoming for the Northern Irish star.

China's Li, American Harman lead on eight under World number one Scheffler two shots back Erratic McIlroy still in contention at three under PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland, July 18 (Reuters) - China's Li Haotong and American Brian Harman led the British Open second round on eight under par as home favourite Rory McIlroy's rollercoaster ride continued at Royal Portrush on Friday.

Brian Harman took dead aim in a mild breeze and surprising sunshine Friday at Royal Portrush for a 6-under 64 that sent him into the weekend hunting another British Open title. He was called the “Butcher of Hoylake” when Harman won the claret jug at Royal Liverpool two years ago because the British press was fascinating by the Georgia native’s love for hunting.

By the time Rory McIlroy finished his first practice round for the British Open at Royal Portrush, a big crowd that weathered rain and sunshine was waiting to see him finish.

In 2019, the last time The Open Championship was played at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, native son Rory McIlroy missed the cut.