Jimenez takes narrow lead

European Tour

Miguel Angel Jimenez overcame illness to open a one shot lead in the European Tour Thailand Classic despite a bogey on the final hole of the second round.

Jiminez had been suffering with flu since Thursday’s first round, but managed to dig deep and shoot six birdies for a six-under 66 to take his score to 11-under.

“I’m very happy. I am disappointed to make bogey on the last but overall I played very solid and made a lot of birdies,” he said.

“You’re always happy when you’re under par – and the more under par you are, the happier you are. I was seven under par with one hole to play, but I finished six under par, but that’s the game.

“I have the flu and I’m very bunged up and slept terribly last night, but apart from that I’m fine.”

Kiradech Aphibarnrat, Jiminez’ playing partner for the round, is second on 10-under after carding his second consecutive five-under 67.

The Thailand native eagled on the second (as he did in the first round), and carded six birdies and three bogies.

“I’ve been striking the ball well. I did not make many mistakes. Got into trouble on 18 during the first round and I missed a short putt on 18 as well today. But apart from that, it has been good,” he said.

“I’m happy with the way I’m playing right now as it’s a huge boost to my confidence. I’ve my family and golf fans here this week and I just try to perform well.”

Richard Lee, Scott Hend and Thongjai Thaidee are one more shot back and tied for third, while first round leader Michael Hoey is tied for sixth on eight-under with four other players.

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