Lawrie’s in fine form at Portugal Masters

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PAUL Lawrie’s seven-under 65, his best round for 18 months, took him to within two strokes of the Portugal Masters early lead and set up a first victory chance for six years.

Former British Open champion Lawrie found his range off the tee after a two-year swing change to track first-round pace-setter Stuart Manley of Britain (68).

Manley, who shot a 65 in the opening round, heads second placed Alvaro Quiros and third-placed Lawrie and Magnus A. Carlsson (66).

Lawrie’s form since winning his fifth title in 2002 has been patchy, largely because of waywardness off the tee.

Work with a new coach, fellow Scot Neil Marr, had changed the 39-year-old’s fortunes, he said.

“We’ve been working on my driving for a couple of years and maybe it’s taken that long to work,” Lawrie said.

“If you are in position ‘Z’ six or seven times off the tee it’s hard work but now it’s only one or two times.

“I’ve been hitting the ball well for the last few months. I just need to hole a few putts now.”

Lawrie was watched by his sons, 13-year-old Craig and 10-year-old Michael, who was a baby when his father came out on top at Carnoustie nine years ago.

“They know a fair bit about golf and I won’t be getting a hard time tonight over my round, for a change,” said Lawrie.

Rank outsider Manley, 174th on the money list with 20 missed cuts from 30 starts this season, continued to defy the form book.