Irish Open final round – McIlroy’s hopes dashed as Hojgaard clinches victory

Rory McIlroy rued his costly bogeys on 15 and 17 as he made no attempt to hide his disappointment after being pipped for Irish Open victory by Rasmus Hojgaard.

“I
felt like I was in control of the tournament for most of the day. I felt I was
playing really solid and doing what I needed to do. Making a lot of pars,
making the odd birdie,” said the home hero.

“Then
obviously the two bogeys on 15 and 17 opened the door for someone to have a
good finish like what Rasmus did on the last few holes.

“Missing the green right on 15 is the place you can’t go and then I just misjudged
the pace with the first putt on 17.

“Overall obviously really disappointed that
I didn’t’ win but I’ll try to take the positives and move on next week to
Wentworth.”

Despite his disappointment, McIlroy hailed the support of the home fans.

“That roar when I hit that second shot on 18 was pretty cool.
The support I got out there this week
was absolutely amazing.

“I’ve had a great time being home. It’s been too long. I
need to keep coming back more often.

“From where I was at the start of the week
and what I wanted to do, it’s a step in the right direction. And if anything it
just whets my appetite even more for [the Open Championship at] Portrush next year.”