McEvoy stays in front in Hong Kong
HONG KONG (Reuters) - Britain's Richard McEvoy maintained his grip on the Hong Kong Open after shooting a 68 in the second round to lead by three shots from defending champion Fredrik Jacobson.
McEvoy, who began the day four strokes ahead, again played superbly as he carded three birdies and a bogey to reach the halfway mark on 10-under-par 130 in the opening event of the 2004 European Tour season.
"I'm pleased that I didn't buckle under the pressure," said McEvoy.
" While I did not make as many putts as on the first day, it was a steady round," he added.
He shot a stunning eight-under 62 in the first round at the par-70 Hong Kong Golf Club course.
Sweden's Jacobson shot a superb 65, including six birdies and a bogey, to move into second place.
"The closer you can get the better. I have got myself into a good position where I can put pressure on McEvoy. It is still early days in the tournament," said Jacobson.
McEvoy is playing his first tournament after earning his European Tour card by winning the Qualifying School.
"This is all a new experience for me," he said. "I have never led going into the weekend. I will just go out there and try to enjoy myself. I don't feel any pressure at all."
Another Swede, Henrik Nystrom, was in third place, five shots behind McEvoy following a round of 66.
World number 10 Padraig Harrington of Ireland added a 69 to his opening 67 to finish six shots off the pace. Joining Harrington in a fourth-place tie were Thailand's Prayad Marksaeng, Peter Gustafsson of Sweden and South African Hennie Otto.
Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke was one stroke further adrift after a second round 69.
Copyright 2003
Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
