Rory McIlroy surges into share of Scottish Open lead

Rory McIlroy said he has been refreshed with "enthusiasm and excitement" by a few weeks off after moving into a joint share of the lead at the Scottish Open on Saturday.

The world number two has struggled to maintain his blistering early season form since ending an 11-year wait to win a major with his first Masters in April.

But the Northern Irishman is rounding into shape nicely ahead of his homecoming for the British Open in Portrush next week.

McIlroy shot a four-under par 66 to move to 11 under for the tournament, alongside overnight leader Chris Gotterup.

England's Matt Fitzpatrick and Marco Penge in the hunt

England's Matt Fitzpatrick and Marco Penge are two shots back following rounds of 69, tied for third with Americans Wyndham Clark and Jake Knapp.

"It is my first realistic chance to win after the Masters," said McIlroy.

"I have had a great season but yes, and I have said this before, when you do something you that have dreamt of for your whole life, and then do it, it was a huge moment in my life and career.

"I just need that little bit of time, and to be back here for the last couple of weeks and digest all of it, I feel like I came here for this tournament with renewed enthusiasm and excitement for the rest of the year."

World number 158 Gotterup equalled the course record with nine birdies in a bogey-free 61 on Friday to start the third day two shots clear.

However, he will start the final day on level terms with McIlroy following a level-par round featuring two birdies and two bogeys.

World number one Scottie Scheffler is five off the lead after a 69 on Saturday.

AFP