TIGER WOODS, Rory McIlroy will have to dig deep than ever in order to create new chapters in golfing's history.
Both men must make up for a huge deficit on No 1 Scottie Scheffler (the hottest golfer in the world), new world No 1.
Scottie Scheffler will lead by five shots into the weekend at Augusta
Tiger Woods had a rough Friday, but he made it to the end on his comeback.
Scheffler, 25, is the game's most dominant player. He has three wins from his last five starts.
After a commanding five shot lead at Augusta, it is clear that he will not be easy to chase down.
Woods, 46 years old, is trying to match Jack Nicklaus' record of six Augusta victories and to be within two of the Golden Bears' 18 Majors haul.
After suffering life-threatening injuries from a car accident, he has already achieved one miracle by getting to Augusta's tee.
He may have to do another miracle to get another green jacket on par.
Woods showed that he can always be counted out after a poor start, where he bogeyed four of his first five holes. He recovered to get a respectable score of 74.
McIlroy is one shot ahead of him, who is making his eighth attempt to join Nicklaus and Woods.
McIlroy is determined to prove that he is a natural battler as he attempts to win the Masters in extremely difficult conditions.
Rory McIlroy was more frustrated in his quest for a Grand Slam career.
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McIlroy is known for his ability to disappear when things get tough. This is especially true if there are winds whipping around the course like it was yesterday at Augusta.
McIlroy insists he is up for the fight after a gritty round of 73, which was a match to his first round effort under much more favorable scoring conditions.
He stated, "I enjoy it when it gets difficult like this." The challenge is what I love, it's something I truly enjoy.
This is Major Championship golf. It's not an easy task, but it's not meant to be. Tomorrow's conditions are very similar, so I look forward to that.
"I still feel like i'm right there. Tomorrow you go out and play a good front nine and suddenly you're right there.
McIlroy might have been satisfied with his efforts but Shane Lowry, a Ryder Cup teammate, won the round.
You could stake your life on one player who raises his game in difficult conditions. 2019 Open champion Lowry is the man to watch - as he demonstrated with a stunning four under par 68 to increase his chances of becoming a double Major Champion.
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