Jeev jumps to tied 4th, Randhawa tied 64th at European Open

County Kildare, Ireland, July 8 (UNI) Jeev Milkha Singh came within three shots of being the leader after an excellent four-under 68 left him tied fourth, while Jyoti Randhawa struggled in the windy conditions to card a disappointing six-over 78 to share the 64th spot after the second round of the Smurfit European Open here.

Jeev, the current Asian Tour's UBS Order of Merit leader following one win and two runner-up finishes this season, showed some wonderful form with seven birdies against three bogeys at The K Club.

He is three strokes behind Welshman Bradley Dredge, who holds a single shot over compatriot Stephen Dodd. Darren Clarke of Northern Ireland is a further stroke back in third.

A top finish here could secure a place at The Open Championship in two weeks time for Jeev as the leading non-exempt player will earn a ticket to Royal Liverpool Golf Club, England.

Meanwhile, it was disappointment for Randhawa, who just about made the cut despite being tied eighth yesterday. Randhawa hit three double bogeys and managed only an equal number of birdies to squander the early advantage.

Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee, who opened his campaign with a 68, slipped back to tied 32nd position after a 74. He shot two birdies against two bogeys and a double bogey on the par three 17th hole.

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