Kang takes clubhouse lead, McDowell and McIlroy on the move

Anthony Kang shot the best round of the UBS Hong Kong Open so far with a nine-under-par 61 giving the American the clubhouse lead midway through the second round.

On another day of low scoring Kang took advantage of near-perfect conditions at Hong Kong Golf Club by reeling off nine birdies in an unblemished round to move into a two-stroke lead over the rest of the field.

Kang, who joined the European Tour in 2009 and claimed his first win on the circuit at the Malaysia Open later that year, is 12 under for the tournament.

Jeev Milkha Singh had briefly held top spot after carding a three under 67 to go 10 under but dropped into a share of second after Kang made his charge.

The Indian was joined by Matteo Manassero – the youngest-ever winner of the British Amateur Championship – after the Italian teenager carded a seven under 63 and Denmark’s Anders Hansen (64).

“It was a very good round of golf,” said Manassero. “I played a regular game, actually, being always in the right position.

“Today was seven under because of the putt. I am very happy with this round. It puts me in contention for the weekend which is what I want.”

First-round leader Mark Brown dropped to nine under, following yesterday’s 62 with a disappointing one under 69.

The New Zealander was tied fifth alongside Denmark’s Soren Hansen (67) and England’s Kenneth Ferrie, who carded a four under 66.

Defending champion Gregory Bourdy kept himself in contention after the Frenchman shot a 66 and is eight under alongside Welshman Jamie Donaldson, who also signed for a 66.

Graeme McDowell, looking for a good finish to boost his chances of winning the Race to Dubai, was making his move up the leaderboard with the Northern Irishman two under through six holes.

Compatriot Rory McIlroy was five shots off the pace after making par through his first five holes.