Defending champion Cameron Smith relieved to survive Open cut, but hard work awaits

Cameron Smith's brilliant finish ensured he survived to defend his Open title over the weekend but he admits overhauling leader Brian Harman 12 shots ahead is a big ask.

The Australian needed a birdie at the par-five 18th to get inside the three-over cut line but surpassed himself with a superb six-iron approach from 232 yards to 16 inches for an eagle to give him hope he can salvage a "crappy week".

Smith said he would have been furious not to have made the last two rounds but has not set his expectations too high with back-to-back Claret Jugs appearing unlikely at Royal Liverpool

"I hit plenty of good shots today that didn't get kind of that reward so it was nice to finish off like that," he said.

"I was aware that I had to make birdie. I think given the circumstance, as well, probably an even better shot."

Asked how he would have felt had he failed to make the cut he added: "Very mad, especially the way I've played.

"Defending is one thing but, just the golf I feel like I'm playing, to miss out on the weekend would be very frustrating.

"I think the scorecard is a long way off how the game feels. Being 12 back with two rounds to go is a big ask but you never know.

"I feel like a good weekend can get me right up at the top of the leaderboard there and can salvage kind of a bit of a crappy week."

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