McIlroy one off the lead at World Tour Championship and in good shape to clinch Race to Dubai title

path is clear for Rory McIlroy to clinch year-long Race to Dubai title and be crowned European tour’s best player for a sixth time.

He’s well in contention to win season-ending World Tour Championship, too.

McIlroy hit a fairway wood from 265 yards to 15 feet at No. 18 and two-putted for a closing birdie in his second round on Friday, a 3-under 69 leaving No. 3-ranked Norrn Irishman one stroke off le held by France’s Antoine Rozner (65) on 9-under par.

McIlroy was tied with Tyrrell Hatton (69) for second place in tournament but his le in year-long Race to Dubai standings looks impregnable.

Thriston Lawrence is only player who can stop McIlroy winning that title — and to do that he needs a victory at Jumeirah Golf Estates. That appeared unlikely, with a 71 leaving Lawrence at level par for week and nine off le at halfway stage.

Rozner, ranked No. 154, was surprise leer after making six birdies in an eight-hole span from No. 9.

He is one of players seeking a high finish to secure one of 10 PGA Tour cards on offer for next season.