Former champion Rory McIlroy had the bite taken out of his challenge in dumping two balls into alligator-infested waters to miss the cut for a second straight year in the Honda Classic in Florida.

McIlroy signed for a pair of 72s to slump to four under par and miss by shot playing all four days on the PGA National course where he reigned supreme four years ago.

The four-time Major winner’s only words after his round, that included a 5th hole triple bogey and a 15th hole double, was in handing a glove to a youngster who acted as ‘walking scorer’ with his group

“Thank you, and here this is you.  I guess I won’t be needing it on the weekend”, said McIlroy.

It’s also the first occasion McIlroy’s missed a cut anywhere since hosting last May’s Irish Open, and in an intervening run of a dozen events.

Rory McIlroy on route to missing the cut for a second year running at the Honda Classic

In contrast, reigning Scottish Open champ Rickie Fowler put himself in position for a second success this season with a pair of 66s to move to the top of the board by a shot at eight under par.

And Fowler, who is currently lying sixth on the Hazeltine points table, continues to impress playing partner and USA Ryder Cup captain David Love 111.

Fowler said: “I’ve always enjoyed getting to play with Davis.  He’s someone I’ve always looked up to, and the way he’s played and the career he’s had, so hopefully I’ve earned myself a chance to play for him later this year.”

However much talk after the second round of the Honda was what when on the night before at the home of Jack Nicklaus who played host to some 22 USA Team Hazeltine possible and probables.

And among those present was Jimmy Walker, in second spot at seven under, and who revealed the tone of his conversation with the injured Tiger Woods, and with Woods among five US vice-captains.

Walker said:  “I only talked to Tiger for just a couple of seconds and said to him ‘Woh! You’re standing up and you’re not dead!’

“Tiger responded: ‘That’s how everybody thinks I am now, dead!’

The only notable absentee from the evening was Open Champion Zach Johnson who was late finishing his opening round of the Honda Classic and was out very early on day two.

However the success of the evening has prompted Nicklaus to again host Love 111 along those closer to selection and this time in May at Nicklaus’ Muirfield Village home and during the week of the Memorial.

It also will be the first formal fitting of attire for potential USA Team members and back-room staff.