Mcilroy collapses once again

World No. 2 misses third straight cut

DUBLIN, OHIO – Rory McIlroy’s troubles in the Memorial on Friday began when he tried to play from the bank of a creek and the ball wound up going backward.

That’s about the direction of his game at the moment.

McIlroy missed the cut for the third straight time with a 7-over 79 in cool, blustery conditions at Muirfield Village. That shot from the creek led to a double bogey, and a double bogey three holes later with a tee shot into the water left him feeling as if nothing is going his way.

“I hit some good shots,” McIlroy said. “It just seems like every time I go out there, I make one or two big numbers and that sort of throws me — a couple doubles on the back nine. Just those big numbers at the beginning are killing me, and I just need to get those off the card and I’ll be OK.”

But with his title defence in the U.S. Open two weeks away, there is cause for concern.

That other Rory — Rory Sabbatini — played his best golf in the worst weather and made a surprising appearance atop the leaderboard. Right behind him was a familiar Tiger Woods.

Spencer Levin (72) and Scott Stallings (73) joined Woods at 5-under 139.

Canadian David Hearn shot a 3-over 75 to sit at 1-over.

Organizers are short of caddies for the Canadian Tour’s upcoming $175,000 ATB Financial Classic, presented by Telus.

The tournament is being held June 21-24 at the Windermere golf course.

“Caddying for a tour pro is a wonderful opportunity to view world-class golf from inside the ropes,” said Tim Garbutt, the tournament’s executive director.

“No previous experience is required.

“All that is required is a good attitude and the ability to walk 18 holes and carry a bag.”

To register, go to www.atbfinancialclassic.com.