Mallow’s James Sugrue is lurking just four strokes off the lead in the Radisson Blu sponsored West of Ireland Championship at a sun-kissed County Sligo. They lead by one stroke from defending champion Matt Brazill from Naas, who shot 70, as Portmarnock star Purcell struggled from the tee and shot 75. The big mover was reigning South of Ireland champion Rafferty, who like Purcell, is a leading contender for Walker Cup honours this year. “I am striking the ball as well as I have ever struck it,” Rafferty said after a six-birdie round. However, McDowell will have gained further confidence from his second-round showing which included an eagle at the par-five 14th.

Source: Irish Examiner April 05, 2019 22:52 UTC