Worthington Jumps To Head Of China Fleet Field - 15/12/2007

PHIL WORTHINGTON shot an inspired round of 64 to move into the lead at The China Fleet International Open.

Worthington, the winner of June's Swallow Challenge, was well placed at -2 following the opening round at Saltash, but was in outstanding form on Thursday to jump ahead.

The Donnington Grove star hit eight birdies in his round, including four in a row from the 12th to the 15th holes, and dropped no shots in a faultless effort.

A 65 from Gavin McNeil saw him push out to -8 alongside Ben St John, who shot a second successive round of 68.

Stephen Pullan's 67 allowed him to move to -7 alongside overnight leader Dean Barnes, who followed Wednesday's 65 with a level par 72 to remain among the contenders.

Five other players are sat on -6, with the afternoon starters enjoying the Cornish sunshine.

Lee Corfield - who is among the chasing pack at -2 - earned himself a place at the end-of-season Peugeot Hole In One Challenge after seeing his tee shot at the 129-yard seventh bounce in for an ace. 

A further update will be issued at the close of play.