Rory McIlroy is set to attack Royal Birkdale with his driver, aiming for a strong start to re-enter contention at The 154th Open. After an opening 72, McIlroy posted a three-under 67, mixing four birdies with a bogey to trail leader Lucas Herbert by seven strokes.

McIlroy felt his driving was impressive and saw an improved putting display, despite frustration at being further behind the leaders. "I felt like I had momentum... I felt like I left a couple out there," he commented. He believes a strong start tomorrow, four or five under par, could put him "right in it."

Paul McGinley noted McIlroy's "phenomenal" driving and ability to create chances, despite some struggles with iron play and putting. With a condensed leaderboard, McGinley stated that McIlroy, at one under, is "still in it."