Appleby storms clear

Stuart Appleby defied strong winds to post a second consecutive 66 and lead the Australian Open by six shots as more than half the field failed to complete their second rounds due to bad weather.

Appleby made light work of the brutal conditions with five birdies and an eagle and just one bogey.

“It’s all about capitalising on your opportunities,” Appleby said. “Luck of the draw is a saying you can use at this course.

“Wind is your biggest opponent on this course and it does force you to second guess. I happened to have a lot of good clubs in my hand and controlled the distance well today.

“On this course it’s easy to make a mistake over something small. I’m very respectful of this golf course and the weather that goes with it.”

Adam Scott, who has 12 holes to play in his second round, is second on six-under, one clear of overnight leader Scott Hend and Peter Wilson, who are also yet to complete round two.

Former Open champion John Daly remains at level-par after six holes.

Craig Parry bounced back from an opening 80 to post a 67 and sit inside the cut line at three-over.

Pre-tournament favourite Geoff Ogilvy faces a nervous wait after posting a disappointing 76 to lie five-over.