Half time at the Masters

As I was going to bed last night a buddy text me saying it was a pity all the big names were missing the weekend at Augusta. I guess to the casual golf viewer it must look like that with the likes of Rory, DJ, Keopka, Garcia and Westwood all gone to the wayside.

Truth be told Westwood is the only one of those that actually surprised me.... maybe he will lament giving his son Sam a lash on the bag over his lucky charm caddy of late - girlfriend Helen Storey. Rory's two way miss, tragic course management and swing changes meant he'd little chance, Garcia's barely made a birdie at Augusta since he won the Green Jacket in 2017, Brooks has a gammy knee, and DJ's putting ability continues to drain away the slower he gets on the greens.

What we are left with ironically, is probably the most exciting leaderboard heading into the weekend at the Masters in a long time. Rose sits on top of the pile as the entire non English world crosses fingers and collectively pray - 'please anyone but him!'

Golden child Jordan Speith is right in the mix and most people's pick at the half way point. He certainly has proved he's the horse for the course, but I can't help wonder if that pony might balk at the 12th fence come Sunday Eve. My pre tournament pick, Aussie Mark Leishman is two back and still great value with the bookies - despite always showing form at Augusta. JT is in the mix and looking to continue his trend of improving his finish at Augusta every year. He will win a green jacket, but will it be this year? Tony 'can't putt on Sundays' Finau is up there, and I for one would love to see him get over the line.

However the story of the 2021 Masters so far has to be the unbelieveable play of - former caddy to Happy Gilmore - Will Zalatoris. It is great to see Zalatoris showing some of the legendary ball striking of his former boss and we'll all be hoping this Cinderella story can continue to tap, tap, tap it in on his way to a no doubt massively oversized Green Jacket on Sunday night. Just go to your happy place Will.

Two great nights viewing ahead - despite McGinley and Butch's best efforts to drive us crazy with the gurgling dribble they'd like to call commentary.

Enjoy the weekend everyone 👌⛳