Britain's Matt Wallace shot a brilliant 62 to take a four-shot lead midway through the DP World Tour Omega European Masters at Crans-Sussier.
Wallace shot a six-under 64 in another bogey-free round on Friday and continued his fast start with eight birdies to finish at a commanding 14-under.
The four-time DP World Tour champion opened with three straight pars, then made two straight birdies in as many holes starting with the fourth, and five straight birdies in six holes to finish in 30.
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Matt Wallace unexpectedly scored two consecutive birdies in the second round of the Omega European Masters!
Wallace then made three straight birdies starting at the 14th hole to move comfortably ahead of overnight co-leader Alex Fitzpatrick at 14 under.
Fitzpatrick shot a second-round 67 with four birdies and one bogey to finish second ahead of compatriot Jordan Smith and Sweden's Henrik Norland, with Andrew “Beef” Johnston one shot behind as he continues his resurgence.
Johnston was eight under along with Nicolai von derlinghausen and Alfredo Garcia Heredia, the latter two of whom were tied for the lead in the first round but finished six shots behind with a 69 in the second round.
Matt Fitzpatrick, the highest-ranked player in the tournament, stumbled into the cut after a three-over 73 in the weekend, while Nicola Hoggard bowed out early after shooting 74 and 75 in the first two days of play.
Matt Fitzpatrick hopes to win Omega European Masters for third time
Is Wallace thinking about the Ryder Cup?
Wallace said he is more focused on being consistent than winning tournaments as he takes a longer view to think about next year’s Ryder Cup team, which he came close to making in 2018 and 2023.
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“It's not just about winning, it's about playing well,” Wallace said. “Luke (Donald, Ryder Cup captain) wants you to play well, and I want to play well, so I'm going to work hard every day to play well and the results will take care of themselves.”
“Competition is good, but I want to stay away from it as much as possible.”
This weekend you can watch the Omega European Masters live on Sky Sports. Sky Sports Golf continues live from 11:30am on Saturday. Watch the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and more with NOW.
