Rory McIlroy was even par after poor light stopped play on the 11th hole at the US Open on Thursday.

McIlroy had just missed a par putt when the hooter sounded to end play. He was four shots off the lead held by Luke Donald.

Meanwhile the story of the round for the Irish was amateur Kevin Phelan who was only one over at 71 after his round.

The Waterford native attends college in Florida and is a rising star.

“It was a tough week, but it was great preparation for this week in terms of having to play a high standard of golf and having to stay patient with yourself.” 

His goal, he said, was, “To hit it one shot at a time.”

Three-time Major champion Padraig Harrington, shot a 73 after a good comeback to end up 3 over while Graeme McDowell also had a shortened round and was also at 3 over after 12 when play was stopped.

Former British Open champion Darren Clarke was five over after 14.