Fisher leads halfway through Dunhill Links

Ross Fisher carded a second round of 4-under 68 to claim a one-shot lead at the halfway stage of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship on Friday.

Fisher carded seven birdies and three bogeys on the Old Course at St. Andrews, one of the three venues used for the pro-am event.

At 11 under par, the Englishman enjoyed a one-shot lead over Sweden's Joakim Lagergren, whose 68 came at Kingsbarns, where first-round leader Alex Noren shot a 71 to finish 9 under.

Thomas Pieters was five shots off the pace after a 68 at Kingsbarns, but was left to regret a double bogey on the 17th after six birdies in the previous 16 holes.

"Just a shame to finish with a double but I was going along nicely and making a few putts,'' said Pieters.

"That three-putt on 17 hurt but I am looking forward to playing St Andrews tomorrow.

"I didn't play a practice round on it because I was too tired, but I know the course. I've been here two or three times, so really looking forward to playing.''

Masters champion Danny Willett faces a battle to make the 54-hole cut after a round of 73 left him two over par.