Ireland and Whitson still clear in European Nations Cup at Sotogrande
Ballymen’as Dermot McElroy was the best of the Irish with a level par 72 on day two of the European Nations Cup in Sotogrande. Photo courtesy of gui.ieIreland remained in front at the European Nations Cup but had their lead reduced to just seven shots at a windy Sotogrande.
Ballymena’s Dermot McElroy shot a level par 72, Reeve Whitson a 74 and Niall Gorey a 76 with Walker Cup player Alan Dunbar’s 82 the discounted score as the boys in green topped the leaderboard at halfway on 434 from Italy (441), France (443) and Portugal (443).
In the individual standings, Whitson remained out in front on two under 142 but saw his three shot lead reduced to one from team mate McElroy and Spain’s Jon Rahm Rodriguez (71).
Muskerry player Gorey suffered a sleepless night following a bout of tummy trouble but battled high winds and firm, fast greens to card a 78 that left him tied for 23rd on five over par 149.
Rathmore’s Dunbar continued to struggle, following a 78 with a second round 82 to be tied 57th on 160.
England, winners of the team title for the past three years, are 22 shots behind Ireland in 12th place.