Clarke rolls back years with 64 to share lead in Holland
Friday, 22 Aug 2008 21:26
Darren Clarke is up against Paul Casey and Ian Poulter for the two wildcard spots.
Veteran Darren Clarke boosted his hopes of playing in next month’s Ryder Cup after grabbing a share of the lead at the KLM Open in Holland.
The Northern Ireland star carded a six-under par 64, to lie on eight-under at the halfway stage with England's Robert Rock and Swede Alexander Noren.
Clarke is chasing one of captain Nick Faldo's two wild card picks for the clash with the Americans from September 19th to 21st.
The 40-year-old has not shot a better score in a European Tour event since carding 60 during the European Open at The K Club in 1999.
Clarke, who failed to drop a shot, said he needs to play at his best for the next two weeks.
"If Nick then feels I am worthy of a pick so be it. If not then that's acceptable,” the Ulsterman said.
"I was just very relaxed out there. With the boys (sons Tyrone and Conor) here I've got to be on my best behaviour, and my attitude is just pretty good.
"I've taken a lot of pressure off myself and feel comfortable. I've been playing well and I'm in a good position now."
Sweden’s Henrik Stenson is in joint second on seven under par. Justin Rose, Oliver Wilson and Soren Hansen are battling for the last three automatic spots in Faldo's team.
Rose is on four-under after going round in 69 which included three birdies. Fellow Englishman Wilson, ninth in the standings, remains on one under while Dane Hansen (69) is on six under.