Rory McIlroy: WGC-Accenture Match Play can throw up surprises

Eager to get going in this week's WGC-Accenture Match Play, Rory McIlroy is keenly aware that the 18-hole format can throw up surprises.

The Northern Irishman faces South Africa's George Coetzee in the first round at Dove Mountain in Arizona and knows a strong start is essential.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the match up, McIlroy explained that while he is looking forward to this week, he prefers match play over 36 holes.

"Eighteen holes of golf – anything can happen. You can be five or six under par and lose or you can play mediocre and win," said the 22-year-old.

Tiger Woods, who faces Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano in round one, agreed with the young Ulsterman, saying: "Anybody can beat anybody at this level."

McIlroy could become world number one for the first time if he were to win and Luke Donald went out before the third round.

He was relaxed about the prospect, saying the rankings are nothing more than "a by-product" of playing golf.

"I'd rather just concentrate on trying to win tournaments and trying to improve as a player," he added.

However, McIlroy has been put out in the second round on his last two visits to Arizona and knows he needs to step it up to make it through to the weekend.

Photo Credit: Getty Images