Flanagan leads in Melbourne

Former United States amateur champion Nick Flanagan scored a flawless six-under-par 66 to lead the Open championship qualifier in Melbourne today.

The 21-year-old, who made it into the starting line-up at St Andrews last year by the same route, found Kingston Heath a happy hunting ground again to reach the halfway stage three clear of fellow Australians Bradley Hughes, Andrew Tschudin, Ben Bunny and Michael Wright.

“I played exceptionally well,” said Flanagan.

“I got away to a fast start and then had a couple of lucky birdies on the back nine.”

Flanagan turned professional after appearing in the Masters last April and finished 23rd at the home of golf.

“I love The Open,” he added.

“It’s probably my favourite – although the Masters was great too.”

Four players go through to Hoylake after the second round.