One more followed at 12 and though he bogeyed 14 – his first of the week – he carded a 67 to head into the weekend alongside Harman.
“I’ve been playing in Europe a lot and being able to experience different kind of courses has helped my game a lot,” he said.
“It will be a lot of pressure for sure, but I just have to find a way to deal with that.
“I think if I play my best, again, I can compete with anyone.”
McIlroy eyes weekend charge
Saturday at The Open is one of the great days in sport and, in Northern Ireland, it is only enhanced by the presence of Rory McIlroy.
The 2014 Champion Golfer has a bit of work to do in order to climb into contention but, at three-under-par and seven shots off the lead, he is still in the fight for the Claret Jug.
McIlroy has been wayward from the tee – he ranks 149th in driving accuracy – and has spent more time in the rough than on the fairway.
But it is a testament to his short game that he scored 69 in round two, one stroke better than yesterday, to sit on three-under-par for the Championship.
Regardless of what happens, this is already a much better week for McIlroy than six years ago, when The Open first returned to Northern Ireland.
McIlroy missed the cut after a horror opening day and, while he has lofty weekend ambitions, he admits that in comparison, he is playing with house money.
“I know what I need to do to get the best out of myself in an environment like that now,” he said.
“It’s incredible to play in front of these fans. I was 20 years ago that I played the North of Ireland here, and never in my wildest dreams did I think that I’d be coming back as a grand slam champion with the support of a nation behind me trying to win The Open.
“I count myself very grateful and very lucky that I’m in this position, and I’m excited for the weekend.”