Rory Mcilroy Catches Fire, Shoots 66 To Get Back Into Contention At The Masters

Rory McIlroy's fragile mental state got a big boost when he left Augusta National on Thursday night, shortly after a pair of late double bogeys had cast a pall on an otherwise brilliant round, in time to put his 4-year-old daughter, Poppy, to bed.

It got another when he arrived on Friday and spoke with famed sports psychologist Bob Rotella.

His advice to McIlroy: Be patient.

The 35-year-old Northern Irishman did exactly that during his second round of the Masters , methodically touring the first nine before catching fire on the second. He made three birdies and an eagle down the stretch, resulting in a 6-under 66 that put him right back in contention as McIlroy tries to chase down the only leg missing from the career Grand Slam .

"I think overall just proud of myself with how I responded today after the finish last night," said McIlroy, who after so many close calls seems to be the sentimental favorite - if not the outright one - to finally win a green jacket.