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Foster joint leader at Belfry

21/09/2007

England's Mark Foster hit a brilliant second round 66 to finish on seven-under-par and claim a joint share of the lead with Dutchman Robert-Jan Derksen at the British Masters at the Belfry.

Foster defied strong winds and heavy rain to score five birdies and a 15ft eagle to put himself in a great position to win the £300,000 winner's cheque.

It was an amazing upturn in form for the 32-year-old who has had a difficult time over the past decade.

Foster won the English Amateur Championships in 1994 and 1995 and teamed up in the same year with Padraig Harrington in the Walker Cup to beat an American team led by Tiger Woods.

But things became tough for Foster after that and he had to go to the European Tour qualifying school six times in seven years after only managing five top ten tournament finishes.

"I don't keep mentally good enough for four rounds and I've got to learn to do that," said Foster. "My coach - my agony aunt - Pete Cowen listens and tries to put me right, but I've got to learn to be consistent mentally."

English pair Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter are a shot behind the leaders on six-under-par and Westwood is confident on mounting a serious challenge over the next two rounds.

"I'm delighted. I've not played too good here in the past, but I'm very pleased with the position I am in," said Westwood.