Alex Noren led a strong home challenge on day two of the Nordea Masters as the Swede looked to regain the title he won in 2011.
The 30 year old won by a runaway seven shots at Bro Hof Slott two years ago and the three-time European Tour winner hit the front again by turning in a two under par 34.
Birdies at the tenth and 17th took Noren to seven under par, one ahead of overnight leaders Matteo Manassero and Pablo Larrazábal.
Another Swede, US PGA Tour winner Jonas Blixt, turned in a four under 32 to join Larrazábal and Manassero on six under.
Italian Ryder Cup star Francesco Molinari was three under through ten holes of his second round to join a large group on five under.
Blixt converted from 12 feet at the short fourth, but Noren was back in front moments later courtesy of a brilliant putt from off the green at the third.
Noren then matched Blixt’s birdie at the fourth after leaving his tee shot within ten feet to reach nine under.
Blixt was alone in second on eight under after almost spinning his approach in at the sixth, with Scotland’s Pete Whiteford taking third on seven under after an eagle at the 15th.
