Whelan leads South qualifiers as O’Keeffe chases victory and Home Internationals spot

Grange's Jake Whelan added a superb 67 to his opening 71 to top the 64 qualifiers on six-under 138.

Jake Whelan leads the way heading into the match play stages in Lahinch. Pic: Fran Caffrey/Golffile

Peter O'Keeffe is gunning for victory in Lahinch after being told he likely needs to win the 121st South of Ireland Amateur Championship to claim his place in the Irish team for the Home Internationals next month.

Runner-up last year, the 41-year-old from Douglas looked destined to lead the qualifiers when he stood on the 18th tee on seven-under-par only to drive into a cavernous bunker on the left and three-putt for a seven instead.