Retief Goosen launched his bid for a second title at Loch Lomond with a spectacular second round 63 at The Barclays Scottish Open.
The 2001 winner, who also claimed one of his two US Open Championship victories that year, registered seven birdies and an eagle at the third for the second day running to set the clubhouse lead at 11 under par.
“I do like it here,” admitted Goosen. “The golf course is fairly generous off the tee, and I'm not one of the straightest hitters, so it does help a little bit for the odd one, if you're off by 15, 20 yards, might still stay on the edge.
“Otherwise, I feel pretty confident around the course. I like the greens, I read them very well here. Obviously playing a golf course that you've played well around before, you always feel like coming back, you feel like you sort of know how to shoot a good score.”
Australia’s Adam Scott was in hot pursuit, the 28 year old adding a 67 to his opening 66 to reach nine under.
“It feels really good the way my game is at the moment,” said the World Number 43. “My ball striking is there again, and just enjoying being out there and being able to do some shots and hit some shots.
“It's a beautiful place and the golf course is great - especially on days like today, I mean, we've had few and far between of these. It would be nice to have a good weekend, but I feel really comfortable out here.
“It's very generous off the tee which can actually improve your driving, because you know, you're going to hit a lot of fairways, so you get a little confidence. I've played nicely for two days, so, yeah, I really enjoy coming here.”
Scott’s compatriot Marcus Fraser is next after a 66 took him to eight under and a share of third place.
The highlight of the 30 year old’s round came when he holed a 65 foot wedge for an eagle at the par five 13th - although his day might have been better had he not suffered consecutive bogeys shortly afterwards.
Last week’s Open de France ALSTOM winner Martin Kaymer signed for a 65 to join Fraser in the clubhouse on eight under, with American Nick Watney a shot further back.
