McGrane Takes Second Round Lead

Damien McGrane signed for a second round 68 on his return to Golf du Pails Royal to retake the lead at the Trophée Hassan II.

The Irishman only played five holes on Friday after five-and-a-half hours’ play was lost to strong winds in Morocco.

That allowed Welshman Phillip Price to set the clubhouse target at ten under par with the former Ryder Cup star carding a 66.

But McGrane, who began the tournament with a 65, had four birdies and no dropped shots over the 13 holes remaining in his round to re-establish his lead at 11 under par.

José Manuel Lara and Joel Sjöholm, who like Price were able to complete their rounds on Friday, lie third and fourth on nine and eight under respectively.

As the second round drew to close Dutchman Joost Luiten produced an eagle and two birdies in his last four holes for a 66 to charge into a share of fourth with Swede Sjöholm.

“I have been very steady for the last 36 holes and playing nicely and taking a lot of the opportunities that I am creating for myself,” said McGrane, whose only European Tour title came by nine shots at the Volvo China Open.

“I am playing with confidence and have now given myself a great opportunity to try and get another win here. I have some good feelings out on the course this morning and I am very content at the moment.

“I suppose you could say that I have had the good side of the draw this week because I didn’t have to wait around at the course all day yesterday. It is always better when you can relax around the hotel and take it easy there, but these things even themselves out over the course of the season and I just have to try and take advantage the best I can.”