DAVID Howell missed the cut at the Irish Open despite a strong display in his second round yesterday.

The Swindon ace began the day at the Portstewart Golf Club two-over-par and requiring a round of at least five-under to make into the weekend.

The two-time Ryder Cup winner, who began his day on the 10th hole, made his charge up the leaderboard with an eagle three on the 13th.

The 42-year-old picked up another shot on the 18th as he moved to three-under for the day.

The Broome Manor began the front nine requiring two more shots to get above the line, however, four consecutive pars was followed by a bogey five on the fifth.

Howell managed to not drop any more shots as he claimed another four pars, but it was not enough to make the cut.