Zurich, April 26 -- Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry remained six off the pace at the halfway stage of the Zurich Classic after dropping three late shots in New Orleans.
The Irish duo, aiming to become the first players to successfully defend the title, started the day six adrift following their eight-under-par fourball round of 64 on Thursday.
They looked set to be closer to the leaders after playing their opening 12 holes on Friday in six under par under the foursomes format but their late stumbles included bogeys at their final two holes as they signed for a 69.
US rookies Kevin Velo and Isaiah Salinda retained their lead after also carding a 69, the BBC reported on Saturday.
"We were six under through 12 and cruising...