Scheffler builds two-shot margin

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler took the lead into the weekend in the WM Phoenix Open, with local favorite Jon Rahm right behind at TPC Scottsdale.

The second-ranked Scheff ler played 25 holes Friday, completing a threeunder 68 in the first round and shooting a bogey-free 64 in the second to get to 10 under. He had a two-stroke lead over Rahm and Adam Hadwin when play was suspended because of darkness. Rahm, the former Arizona State star ranked No. 3, also returned early to finish the first round. He shot 68-66 to possibly set up a weekend showdown with Scheffler for the No. 1 ranking.

“That would be a lot of fun,” Scheffler said. “It looks like right now we’re 1 and 2, but we’ll see how things shake out. A lot of guys still have a lot of golf out there to play. Should be a fun weekend.”

Hadwin had eight holes left when play was suspended. None of the afternoon starters were able to finish the round.

Porter holds f ive-shot lead

Cassie Porter fired a course record nine-under par 64 to take a five-shot lead halfway through the women’s Vic Open at 13th Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads, Australia. The 20year-old Porter had eagles on the par-four fifth and the par-five 18th on the Creek Course in the second round to move to 15 under after opening with a 66.

Ames atop Morocco

Stephen Ames fired a three-under par 70 to maintain his spot at the top of the leaderboard following the second round of the Trophy Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco. Australia’s Mark Hensby (67) and England’s Paul Broadhurst (70) were three strokes back at six under.

Singapore delayed

Tom McKibbin of Northern Ireland and Chinese amateur Ding Wenyi were tied for the lead at the Singapore Classic when play was suspended by darkness. Play was also interrupted for an hour by rain.