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Fasth sets pace in Munich

22/06/2007

A stunning round of 65 has given Nicolas Fasth a two-stroke lead at the halfway stage of the BMW International Open in Munich.

The Swede is on 12 under par after dropping just one shot to lead compatriot Peter Hanson.

Englishman Nick Dougherty, a challenger for last week's US Open, is four shots behind while Paul Casey and Ernie Els are both on six under.

Despite a two-hour rain delay, Fasth followed up his opening round of 69 to continue his impressive form.

The 29-year-old fired seven birdies round including five in eight holes.

Fasth said last week's performance at Oakmont had improved his self-belief.

"Obviously last week gave me a boost and a bit of confidence to know I played all right in that sort of environment," Fasth said.

"All this week it's been very good here but yesterday I just didn't hole the putts that I should have because my driving and iron play gave me a lot of chances. But today, they dropped.

"Good play here is rewarded with birdies, and good play at Oakmont was rewarded with pars.

"But the challenge is effectively the same in that you need a very, very good score to win."

Dougherty, who is on eight under, said he is desperate to triumph and clinch a place in the Open.

"I'm desperate to be at Carnoustie, not just because of the way I've been playing but also because I love the course," Dougherty said.

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