Lowry makes strong start at Augusta National

Shane Lowry is in prime position to make the cut at the US Masters following an opening round 70 which leaves the Clara golfer in a tie for sixth position on the leaderboard.

This is Lowry's eleventh occasion to contest for the famous Green Jacket and he started Thursday's round with consecutive birdies before four-putting the par three fourth hole from less than 25 feet for a double-bogey score.

Lowry dropped a further shot at the sixth hole, before signing for two more birdies at holes eight and nine.

The 2019 Open champion chipped in for eagle on the 13th hole as he started to find rhythm to his game, but a bogey on the 17th saw him eventually sign for a two under round.

Lowry will aim to remain in contention for the major honour when he tees off at 5.56pm (Irish time) this evening (Friday) with Dustin Johnson and Jason Day once again being his playing partners.

Meanwhile, reigning US Masters champion made a strong start to his tournament shooting a 67 to tie for the opening round lead alongside US golfer Sam Burns.

McIlroy starts his second round on the famed Augusta course at 6.44pm (Irish time) on Friday.