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FLASHBACK: Relive Rory McIlroy's dramatic win at the 2016 Irish Open

STRAFFAN, IRELAND - MAY 22: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland poses with the trophy following his 3 shot victory during the final round of the Dubai Duty F

By Ali Stafford

Wednesday 5 July 2017 11:12, UK

Rory McIlroy returns to Northern Ireland this week as defending champion at the Irish Open, looking to repeat last year’s special victory.

The world No 4 and tournament host took a three-shot lead in to the final round at the K Club, but had to produce a remarkable finish to hold off the challenge of Russell Knox.

Knox had birdied the 14th and 15th to take a one-shot lead on Sunday, only for McIlroy to vault back ahead with a stunning second shot at the par-five 16th to set up a two-putt birdie.

STRAFFAN, IRELAND - MAY 22: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates his 2nd shot on the 18th hole with caddie JP Fitzgerald during the final round of
Image: McIlroy had missed the cut in his previous three Irish Open appearances

As Knox carded a three-putt bogey at the 17th to set the clubhouse target at nine under, McIlroy saved the best until last with a shot-of-the-year contender at the final hole.

McIlroy creamed a five-wood from just over 250-yards at the par-five 18th to within two feet of the cup, leaving a tap-in eagle to complete a three-shot win and a first success of 2016.

Live European Tour Golf

Click on the video above to relive McIlroy's home victory!

Also See:

Watch the Irish Open throughout the week live on Sky Sports 4 - your home of golf. Live coverage begins on Thursday from 10.30am.