Ryder hero Price aims to roll back years

Former Ryder Cup hero Phillip Price has a real chance to re-ignite his career after a second round 66 at the Hassan Trophy in Morocco today.

Strong winds prevented any play before 1pm yesterday, but the 45-year-old Welshman then moved onto the 10 under par halfway total of 134. He is one ahead of Spaniard Jose Manuel Lara overnight, although the round has still to be completed.

First day leader Damien McGrane, for example, managed only five holes and parred them all to remain seven under.

Italian teenager Matteo Manassero, needing to win to have a chance of climbing into the world’s top 50 and qualifying for the Masters, is five behind following a 71.

Price has not finished amongst Europe’s top 100 money-winners since 2004 and last season held onto his card by little more than £1000. Forever to be remembered for his victory over Phil Mickelson at the Belfry a decade ago, he is chasing his first victory for nine years.

Price had six birdies and did not drop a stroke all day. “I’m delighted with that,” he said. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been anywhere near a leaderboard. It’s nice to be up there.”