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Dougherty shares Dunhill lead

05/10/2007

England's Nick Dougherty shares the lead at the halfway stage of the Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland.

Dougherty fired a six-under-par 66 at Carnoustie in his bid for his second European Tour Title.

He is joined on 11-under by Australia's Peter Malley, who equalled the course record of 64, and South African Henrie Otto who carded 67.

The event which is played at Carnoustie, St Andrews and Kingsbarns, also saw the battle for the Order of Merit crown heat up.

Ernie Els posted ten-under to lie a stroke off the lead while rival Padraig Harrington is two strokes further back. Justin Rose in on seven-under after going round in 69.

Harrington, who leads the Order of Merit from Rose, said he was hoping to improve on his round of 66 at St Andrews.

"There are at least five or six in contention.

"I've just got to make sure I carry on improving on Saturday and again on Sunday," Harrington said.

Meanwhile, Dougherty said he was hoping his relaxed attitude will help him triumph in Scotland.

"I am playing really well at the moment but I am just going to go out there and try to enjoy it," Dougherty said.

"I have tried so hard to win won this year that I am now at the stage of thinking, just go out and have a good time.

"I am still gunning to win one and I know that I can. I have just got to relax and let it happen."