Fisher Jr records a second 66 to open two-shot Africa Open lead

TREVOR Fisher Jr held the lead at the halfway stage of the Africa Open after matching his opening-day effort with another 66 in East London, South Africa, to head into the weekend on 14-under-par.

The South African, who was one of five players to share top spot after the opening round at the co-sanctioned European and Sunshine Tour event, was in command from the start of the day after beginning with an eagle and a birdie on his first two holes. His closest challenge came from fellow overnight leader Patrik Sjoland as the Swede mixed an impressive eight birdies and an eagle with one double bogey and two bogeys, while another home favourite, Thomas Aiken, dropped no shots on his way to a 67, to sit 12 under overall.

Keith Horne, on the same score as his fellow countryman, was the highest-placed player amongst the afternoon starters, one shot ahead of a trio of players on 10 under, including Deane Pappas, Vaughan Bradford and Englishman Justin Walters.

"With two rounds to go, I've obviously put myself in position which is nice," said Fisher Jr. "I just want to give myself a chance – that's all."

Pre-tournament favourites Charl Schwartzel, James Kingston and Richard Sterne, the highest ranked players in the field at 66, 83 and 94 respectively, were well placed for a weekend charge after rounds of 70, 69 and 71 to move into a tie for eighth on nine under.

Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke finished two shots further back on seven under after following up an opening 69 with a 70, but England's Nick Dougherty missed the cut, finishing three over par.