Golf

Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy two shots off the lead in New Orleans

Irish pair shoot better-ball round of 62 but lose lead after American duo record a 60

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry of Ireland fist bump on the second green during the third round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans at TPC Louisiana in Avondale, Louisiana. Photograph: Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry of Ireland fist bump on the second green during the third round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans at TPC Louisiana in Avondale, Louisiana. Photograph: Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Sun Apr 28 2024 - 12:35

The Irish pairing of Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy are two shots behind the lead heading into the final day of the Zurich Classic in New Orleans.

They led the first two rounds but could not keep up with American duo Patrick Fishburn and Zac Blair who shot a 12 under par 60 to take top spot on 23 under par.

Lowry and McIlroy had a faultless day on the best ball round with eight birdies, but the American duo’s 10 birdies and one eagle set them above the rest, with the team of Luke List and Henrik Norlander one shot behind them.

After the day’s play, McIlroy said it was “a tough day” despite finishing 21 under par.

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“Birdies were a little harder to come by today than they were on Thursday in the better-ball format. I think today was about staying patient knowing that the course was going to present some opportunities, especially on that back nine.”

Tied in third with Lowry and McIlroy are the duo of Ryan Brehm and Mark Hubbard.

The final day will be played in alternate format with breezy conditions expected at TPC Louisiana. McIlroy and Lowry tee off at 6.44pm Irish time.