Putting problems persist for Rory McIlroy at the Barclays

Putting problems persist for Rory McIlroy at the Barclays

Rory McIlroy has endured a torrid time of late and a level par round on the first day of the Barclays did little to silence the Irishman’s critics.

Putting problems have plagued Rory’s season and it is fair to say his first competitive round using his new Scotty Cameron mallet putter didn’t go to plan as he closed five shots off the pace.

While Rory’s round wasn’t a complete disaster his putting left a lot to be desired he finished -2.304 strokes gained/putting having missed more than a handful of putt  from close range.

Speaking to the media afterwards he said: “I felt a little tentative at the start.

“I left a couple short early on and then I missed the short one on the fourth hole today. I struggled a bit, but I stayed with it and stayed patient.”

The four time major winner was pleased with his game from tee to green though and is confident he is still in the hunt for success going into the weekend.

“I hit the ball pretty well from tee-to-green,” he said.

“I think anything under par today in the afternoon especially is a good score.

“Now I Have to get back out there tomorrow in better conditions with the greens a little bit better and try to do something.”