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Disappointed McIlroy confesses his game needs work

Rory McIlroy is dissatisfied with his current performance level © Getty Images

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Rory McIlroy was in downcast mood following his performance at the WGC-CA Championships, expressing dissatisfaction with his current performance level.

The 20-year-old Ulsterman, who is expected to fall out of the world's top ten following a finish of 65th place in Miami, acknowledged a need to work on his game if he is to add to his only Tour win - at the Dubai Desert Classic in 2009.

"I just didn't have it and haven't had it for the last couple of weeks. I've a few issues to sort out when I get home," he said.

McIlroy has employed a mental coach in a bid to turn encouraging final-round placings into tournament victories, a move that he insists will produce results given time. "Half of [my problem] is probably mental. I'm starting off in a negative mood," he said.

Padraig Harrington could replace McIlroy in the top ten of the rankings on Tuesday after returning to form with a third-place finish at the WGC-CA. Afterwards, he admitted that final-day nerves harmed his chances of winning in Miami.

"I was hanging on a knife-edge all day, but I learnt a few things - as you always do in these situations. My bunker play was just not with it and my pitching could have been a bit better. You don't really see it until you are under pressure," he said.

Ernie Els was the victor at the Doral Golf Resort, triumphing by four strokes for his first Tour win in over two years. According to the South African, the victory vindicated the changes he has made to his game in search of trophies.

"I've had a tough run and I really wanted to play well. I just wanted to prove it myself for once. I had to really trust the changes I've just made. The wind was blowing and you had to hit solid shots," he said.

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