McIlroy evokes Tiger memories

The mop-haired Northern Irishman matched Woods' achievement at the 2000 Open by charging six shots clear after the second round at Congressional where he has posted a tournament record total of 11-under 131.

“Everybody would agree he's probably got more talent in his pinky than I have in my whole body,” American Brandt Snedeker told reporters after carding a one-under 70 to lie nine shots off the pace. He is unbelievably talented. If he keeps playing the way he's playing, we're all playing for second place.”

World No 3 Martin Kaymer agreed. “Rory is obviously running away with it so we are pretty much playing for second unless something crazy happens tomorrow,” Kaymer said after shooting a 70. “Eleven-under after two rounds at the US Open is impressive.”

Graeme McDowell, who won last year's US Open at Pebble Beach by one stroke, felt the par-71 Blue Course at Congressional was a perfect fit for his fellow Northern Irishman.

“He probably won't get a better US Open layout that suits him than this,” said McDowell after following his opening 70 with a 74.  “You have to drive the ball very well and he's probably one of the best drivers to hit a ball that I've ever seen. We nicknamed him 'BMW' because he is the ultimate driving machine,” McDowell said.

“It's crazy, isn't it?” said American world number four Steve Stricker. “Pretty incredible what he's done so far.”