The Open: Rory McIlroy staying upbeat on prospects

Rory McIlroy says he is not getting downhearted despite being eight shots behind leader Phil Mickelson at the halfway stage of the Open.

The world number four had the worst of the conditions at Royal Troon on Friday and said he was happy with a level-par 71.

The 27-year-old from Northern Ireland felt he could still mount a challenge, but said Mickelson and other contenders were playing strongly.