McGirt making move at US Masters, top players eye leader Hoffman

McGirt, who started the second round four shots back of the American journeyman, dropped a shot at the par-four first but quickly settled down with birdies on two of the next three holes before reaching the turn in one-under 35.

World number 52 Hoffman, who managed nine birdies during tough conditions in the opening round to storm to the top of the leaderboard, was even par through his first hole to remain seven under for the tournament.

Defending champion Danny Willett got his round off to a miserable start by firing a quadruple-bogey eight opening hole to drop to five over par for the tournament and now risks missing the cut at the year's first major.

Spaniard Sergio Garcia, who is seeking his maiden major title, birdied his first two holes to reach three under for the tournament.

Among the later starters were three-time champion Phil Mickelson, Australian Jason Day, Jordan Spieth and Olympic champion Justin Rose. –Reuters