Graeme McDowell failed to make an impact in the second round

Graeme McDowell remained nine shots behind US Open leader Ricky Barnes after managing to play six holes of his third round on Saturday.

After a disappointing two-over-par 72 in his second round at a rain-hit Bethpage, McDowell had two birdies but then stumbled with a double bogey.

The Portrush player lies one over and one shot better than Rory McIlroy.

McIlroy posted a 70 in his second round on Saturday and then parred the five holes he has played in his third round.

Darren Clarke missed the cut after a 76 left him 10 over and Padraig Harrington struggled to 12 over after a 76.

McDowell was in the top 10 after a 69 in the first round but he dropped shots on six, eight and the 18th with the 13th providing his only second-round birdie.

McIlroy picked up shots at the second, sixth and 11th holes but carded bogeys at three, 12 and 14.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version