Sangchai pips team-mate to halfway lead in Kota Kinabalu

PETALING JAYA: Thailand’s Sangchai Kaewcharoen managed to seize control at the halfway stage of the 115th Malaysian Amateur Open despite bogeying the last two holes.

The 17-year-old added a solid two-under 69 to his opening 70 to edge a shot clear of compatriot Sadom Kaewkanjana (70) at the wind-swept Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai in Kota Kinabalu yesterday.

Sangchai could have ended with a bigger advantage as he was four-under through 16 holes before the late blemishes left him with a three-under 139 total.

Yashas Chandra, India's third-ranked golfer, posted a one-under 70 for third place on 141 while last year's runner-up – Witchayanon Chothirungrungrueng (71) of Thailand – and Taiwan’s Wen Chen-hsiang (73) are a further shot back.

Galven Kendall Green carded a fine two-under 69 to keep his hopes of emulating elder brother Gavin’s title-winning feat in 2012 alive.

The 17-year-old Galven, who carded a dismal 77 on Thursday, is the best-placed Malaysian at seven shots off the pace. He climbed to joint 13th on four-over 146.

He was pleased to bounce back after trading three birdies against a bogey to make the weekend within touching distance of the leading pack.

“It was massive,” said a relieved Galven. “My short game has improved and that made the difference. The course is really tough, so I'm very happy to return an under-par score.

“I’m not giving up just yet. There’s still a lot to play for in the next two days.”

A total of 63 players made the weekend cut of 17-over 159.