Rory McIlroy has moved into contention at the halfway stage of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

In his final tournament before the Masters, the world number one reeled off five consecutive birdies across his back nine at Bay Hill to card a round of 66 today that leaves him on 8-under par and tied for fourth place.

American Morgan Hoffmann is the outright leader by three shots from 13-under after a stunning round of 65 today.

Padraig Harrington had a strong start to his round but eventually had to settle for a 71 that has moved him to 5-under heading into the weekend.

Graeme McDowell and Shane Lowry both missed the cut after finishing on level par and 1-over respectively.