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Matthew Fitzpatrick leads Rory McIlroy by one after 36 holes at WGC-HSBC Champions

Josh BerhowBy Josh Berhow
November 1, 2019

Matthew Fitzpatrick shot a five-under 67 on Friday at the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai, China, to take a one-shot lead over Rory McIlroy. Here’s what you missed on Day 2 at Sheshan International Golf Club.

Fitzpatrick out in front

Fitzpatrick’s opening rounds of 66-67 has him at 11 under and gives him a one-shot lead over McIlroy, who shot 67 for the second straight day. Xander Schauffele, the defending champ, and Sungjae Im and Adam Scott are both two back at nine under.

This is Fitzpatrick’s second 36-hole lead on the PGA Tour, and despite winning five times on the European Tour in his young career, he’s still looking for his first PGA Tour victory. His best WGC finish is a T4, which came at last year’s WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational.

Fitzpatrick’s closest chaser, McIlroy, eagled the 18th hole on Friday to jump within a shot of the lead.

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Best shot

Or maybe we should call this one “Best touch.” Here’s Jordan Spieth, from just off the green. Spieth shot 73 and is tied for 42nd.

As for the Presidents Cup…

A couple of potential captain’s picks for Tiger Woods’ U.S. squad had strong rounds on Friday to jump up the leaderboard. Kevin Kisner shot 67 and is tied for 11th whole Tony Finau shot 70 and is tied for 11th.

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