While it is always a highlight of the sporting year, the Masters has an extra edge for all Irish golf fans this weekend with Shane Lowry tied for second going into this evening’s second round.
The Offaly native was in fine form on Friday as he soared up the leaderboard to move within five shots of the leader Scottie Scheffler.
Speaking to KCLR’s Saturday Scoreline, LPGA caddy Harry Ewing outlined what Lowry needs to do to claim the famous green jacket on Sunday night.
“He was hugely impressive yesterday despite the tricky conditions. Four under par was an incredible score considering even par would have been solid. It’s a tricky place to hold onto a lead so Lowry has a good chance.
“I always felt that he has gifted hands and is a wonderful driver which is crucial at Augusta. If he shows his short game skills and his attributes are elavated he will have a great chance,” Ewing said.
The only man in a better position than fan favourite Lowry, is the world number one Scottie Scheffler who was simply incomparable to any other opponent over the opening two days.
Ewing feels that he will be a difficult player to rein in for the chasing pack.
The Carlow native explained: “He’s the justified hottest player in the world right now and he is rightfully feared considering how strong his form has been. If he hits a couple of 70s or 69s he is going to be in a really healthy position. He’s the one player you don’t want to be chasing”
Despite that assertion, Ewing did not rule out a winner other than the man who has won three of the last five PGA Tour events.
“The course is a little bit easier on a Saturday which gives people who are adrift at the moment some hope. However, if you are over par going into the third round you are going to need to shoot something in the mid 60s to have any chance whatsoever.”
The former professional golfer also echoed the sentiments of many when he commented on the “freakish” Tiger Woods who has returned to competitive golf for the first time in seventeen months.
“He is simply outstanding. It’s unbelievable that he is playing here. He got off to a horrendous start yesterday with four bogeys in his first five holes, but he turned on the style after that.”
“Can we rule him out? Probably not because he is super human and he’s in with a shout when you consider the fact that he knows this course so well. He’s a five-time champion here for a reason.”
Tune into Sunday Scoreline tomorrow from 2pm when Harry will preview the final round.