Euphoria or anguish awaits Rory McIlroy on Sunday at 2025 Masters after carefree 66 opens door to immortality

McIlroy will have everything on the line with a two-shot lead and 18 holes remaining in his Masters sojourn

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- They heard a roar and believed it was for their man. Unaware of his troubles around the turn, those up ahead were smiling from ear to ear. Rory McIlroy had made his move across the first seven holes at Augusta National Golf Club on Saturday to take the solo lead, the long-sought-after green jacket now seemingly in range.

The contingent was diverse and consisted of patrons from all walks of life -- athletes, celebrities, business executives and kids. They all cheered for the same outcome. It was a small herd, the larger pack still a hole adrift, but it wasn't long until the cattle came charging down the hill, their man not far behind.

News came with them -- not the type they hoped to hear. The roar wasn't for McIlroy, who had made noise on the green prior, but playing partner Corey Conners. The advantage, which had ballooned to as many as three -- thanks to an Augusta National-record six threes out the gate -- was now down to one with the Canadian and McIlroy's U.S. Open foe breathing down.