Jim Furyk fires his way into contention

Jim Furyk signalled his intent to retain The Heritage title in the best way possible by charging into a tie for the early lead in yesterday's second round at Harbour Town Golf Links.

The veteran American, who triumphed last year in a play-off, fired a five-under-par 66 for an eight-under total of 134, finishing the round level with Australian Jason Day (65) and Colombian Camilo Villegas (68).

The pacesetting trio were a stroke in front of American Garrett Willis, the overnight leader, who was among the day's late starters.

Furyk made a fast start for a second successive day with birdies on his first three holes - the tenth, 11th and 12th where he holed putts from 15, six and 12 feet.

"I kind of cooled off both rounds afterwards, but I felt like I played a very good round of golf today," said Furyk after taking advantage of another calm morning at Harbour Town.

The 40-year-old picked up further shots on the two par-fives on his back nine, the second and fifth, to climb into a share of the lead.

"Overall I really felt a lot more comfortable with my ball-striking and with my putting," Furyk said. "I played well and I kind of gutted it out."