Darren Clarke disappointed with Open exit

Defending champion Darren Clarke has revealed his disappointed after he failed to make the cut on day two of the Open Championship.

Following a six-over opening round of 76, the Northern Irishman carded a score of 71 on Friday to leave him four shots off the cut mark on seven over par.

"I'm disappointed, I would have liked to come here and put up a good score in defence," said the 43-year-old.

"Tee to green was okay, I just had a very cold putter again. It's not been very good for a long time. The damage was done on Thursday but I gave myself plenty of chances to make it up.

"The crowd were wonderful to me last year and have been to me all year round. It is a pity I didn't give them anything to shout about. It has been an honour and privilege to be Open champion. It is a huge honour to have my name on the Claret Jug and they will be memories that I cherish forever."

American Brandt Snedeker currently leads the field going into the weekend after a course record-equalling round of 64.