Rory McIlroy left in stitches after decision from Zurich Classic event organisers

The Northern Irishman is currently competing at the tournament in New Orleans as he looks to build on his recent Masters triumph

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry were greeted with a familiar tune as they stepped onto the first tee box in New Orleans on Saturday.

Organisers of the Zurich Classic blasted Journey’s ‘Don’t Stop Believin” through the loudspeakers, a nod to the duo’s celebrations after winning the tournament last year.

The 1981 anthem left the pair in fits of laughter, no doubt recalling their boozy karaoke session following their playoff victory over Chad Ramey and Martin Trainer last April.

The pair remain firmly in contention heading into Sunday’s final round.

They start the final day at 22-under-par following Saturday’s impressive round of 61.

Lowry eagled the par-five seventh hole as the Irish stars picked up six shots on the outward nine.

They added four more birdies on the back nine to continue their charge up the leaderboard.

The defending champions did drop a shot on the 17th hole.

However, McIlroy quickly made amends with a spectacular 30-foot eagle at the last hole.

That final eagle came after players had endured a 90-minute delay due to lightning in the area.

Americans Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin currently lead the tournament at 27-under-par, meaning McIlroy and Lowry will need to make up a five-shot deficit if they are to successfully defend their title.

Sunday’s finale is set to be a hectic and exciting race to the finish line.

The format switches back to foursomes for the final round, adding another layer of complexity to the competition.