Niall Kearney takes two-shot lead at BMW International Open; Seamus Power third on PGA Tour

Kearney recorded his best European Tour finish with a share of fourth in the Canary Islands Championship in May thanks to a closing 61, but had missed the cut in his last three starts

Ireland’s Niall Kearney held the halfway lead in the BMW International Open (Tim Goode/PA)

Ireland’s Niall Kearney defied his lowly world ranking of 599 to open up a two-shot lead at the halfway stage of the BMW International Open.

Kearney played the final two holes of his weather-delayed first round in one under par on Friday morning to complete a flawless 65, before adding a second round of 68 to reach 11 under par.