For a spell on Friday afternoon the organisers of the Dubai Desert Classic had cause for panic. Jon Rahm had already tumbled out of the tournament after 36 holes, Viktor Hovland was heading the same way and Rory McIlroy was dangerously close to the cut line.

Rory McIlroy believes he still has a "decent chance" of defending his Hero Dubai Desert Classic crown despite being eight shots behind leader Ewen Ferguson.

Rory McIlroy is not playing at the level we have come to expect, but has precedence to lean on at the Hero Desert Dubai Classic.

Ewen Ferguson took the spotlight at the Dubai Desert Classic, leading after the second round. Ranked No. 141, Ferguson edged ahead after an advantageous shot at the 18th hole. Meanwhile, top-ranked stars Jon Rahm and Viktor Hovland missed the cut,

Rory McIlroy struggled with a cold putter but believes he can still win a record fifth Hero Dubai Desert Classic and his third in a row.

McIlroy charged from 10 shots behind last year and will need a repeat performance if he is to win tournament for a third year in a row

As ‘Moving Day’ looms at Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai’s very own star sets the pace while marquee names prepare to climb the leaderboard

Dubai-based Scot Ewen Ferguson leads way on 12 under while Jon Rahm’s struggles cause a surprise after dismal 77.

Rahm hit an amazing bunker shot Thursday but couldn't get it going Friday, as he was 4 over during a seven-hole stretch on the back nine.