Rose Relaxed in Masters Bid Despite Last Year's Near-Miss

Justin Rose is making a strong push for The Masters title, having put himself in contention after the first two rounds at Augusta National. A year after his heartbreaking play-off loss to Rory McIlroy, Rose claims he feels no added pressure to make amends. He has carded rounds of 70 and 69 to challenge for major victory once again. Rose reflected on his past near-misses, saying they serve as a reminder that he can win at The Masters. He mixed five birdies with two bogeys on Friday to set an early target. Rose expressed his enjoyment of competing at the tournament, saying the crowd's support gives him positive energy. He aims to maintain a focused yet relaxed approach to his game, avoiding intensity that could hinder his performance. The former world number one recovered from an early bogey to post four birdies in a five-hole stretch, eventually finishing five under. Rose executed his game plan well, despite some tricky conditions, and gave himself credit for staying patient. Fellow Englishman Tyrrell Hatton also made a significant move up the leaderboard with a six-under 66, just a shot behind Rose. Hatton, who had previously described himself as 'headless' after a bogey, was pleased with his seven birdies but disappointed with a bogey at the last hole. World number one Scottie Scheffler had a disappointing round, bogeying both par-fives on the second nine to finish two-over 74.