PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland -- The rain pounded Royal Portrush right when Scottie Scheffler poured in a birdie putt on his first hole Friday in the Open Championship. No matter. Nothing stopped the world's No. 1 player on his way to a 7-under 64 to build a one-shot lead going into the weekend.

Scheffler made eight birdies on another wild afternoon of weather at Royal Portrush, and his 15-foot birdie attempt on the 18th stopped inches short for another.

The result was a one-shot lead over former U.S. Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick , who made four straight birdies to start the back nine until he cooled on the home stretch and had to settle for a 66.

The rain was heavy at times but never lasted long. The wind was breezy but never at strength that can cause fits. The scoring was lower, n

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