Rafferty has his eye on Scottish prize

NORTHERN IRELAND’S Ronan Rafferty increased his lead yesterday at the Prostate Cancer UK Scottish Senior Open, after a rain-soaked day at Archerfield Links.

The former European Tour No. 1 went into the second round with a one-stroke lead, and a five-under-par 67 on the DJ Russelldesigned Fidra course saw him move two shots clear.

Rafferty shot three birdies on the front nine, making the turn in 33 shots. He then recovered from a bogey on the 12th hole, making gains on the 13th, 15th and 18th holes to move to 14-under-par.

“I’m delighted for myself, but also for my amateur,” said Rafferty. “We had some good chat around the course all day, and I didn’t feel like I put myself under any pressure anywhere on the course.

“I wasn’t scrambling around, and I kept it going well. It’s very easy to miss greens here and leave yourself with an awkward shot.

“This is new ground for me, it was a long time ago since I last won a tournament. But, I suppose this is the reason we play, putting ourselves in a position where you can compete and win tournaments.

“If you’re not trying to do well, it’s the wrong game for you to be in.”

Spain’s Santiago Luna, winner of this event in 2013, carded two eagles and three birdies en route to a second round 65, moving to within two shots of Rafferty on 12-under-par.

Australian Mike Harwood carded a six under par 66 and is just one stroke behind Luna, and Mark James, European Captain at The 1999 Ryder Cup, shot a second consecutive round of 67 for a 10-under par total and sole possession of fourth place.