Harrington plays down hip problem

Padraig Harrington shot a two-under-par 69 to share the lead in the Irish PGA at The European Club.  The Dubliner is joined on that mark by Michael Hoey and Brendan McGovern.

David Higgins, fresh from his British Open qualifying exploits yesterday, is among a number of players on one-under while defending champion David Mortimer is off the pace somewhat after a 76.

Harrington, the world  number 10, required treatment on the ninth hole for a hip problem. Waiting to hit his second shot his right hip locked and he had to lie on the fairway as treatment was administered.

But Harrington played down the matter following his round.

Although experiencing discomfort, at no time was the problem painful and his shots were not affected. He also added that there was no link between this problem and a recent knee condition he has battled.