McClean makes a move at Azalea Invitational

Matthew McClean of Ireland plays his third shot from green side bunker on hole three during the round of 16 at the 2022 U.S. Mid-Amateur at Erin Hills in Erin, Wis. on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022. (Steven Gibbons/USGA)

Masters-bound Matt McClean fired eight birdies in a four-under-par 67 to move into the top 10 at halfway in the Azalea Invitational in South Carolina.

The Malone man is tied for sixth on four under but eight strokes behind PJ Maybank III, who added a 64 to his opening 66 to lead by two strokes from Calahan Keever on 12-under at the Country Club of Charleston.

Scores

McClean will be one of four Irish players competing at the Masters Tournament alongside Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry and Seamus Power.

His US Mid-Amateur victory over Hugh Foley at Erin Hills last year also earned him a place in the US Open, which will be played at The Los Angeles Country Club from June 15-18.