McIlroy sinks 11 birdies in Abu Dhabi surge

ABU DHABI — Rory McIlroy charged into contention at the Abu Dhabi Championship with a second round featuring 11 birdies as Jon Rahm moved into a three-way share of the lead Friday. McIlroy shot the round of the day to haul himself back into the mix after receiving a two-shot penalty Thursday for improving his lie on a hole where he made a double-bogey. “I’d much rather be two shots worse off than be called a cheat,” said McIlroy, reflecting on the incident at the 12th hole during his opening round at Yas Links. “I made peace with it and at least I went out today, and it wasn’t playing on my mind. I had a clear conscience, and I could just go and play.” The six-time major champion carded a nine-under 63 in round two, picking up seven birdies on the back nine to bolster his chances of winning a record-equalling eighth Race to Dubai title. “It wasn’t like I got off to the greatest of starts today, but then obviously I got it going,” said McIlroy, who overcame a bogey on the first hole before finding his groove. “I went out today and played a good round of golf and did get myself back...