Golf: Shilton stars as NZ cling to lead

A fine three-under par 68 in tough conditions from experienced golfer Brad Shilton helped New Zealand to retain their lead at the halfway stage of the Asia Pacific teams championship at The Links Golf Club, Port Douglas, yesterday.

New Zealand combined for a one-over par 214 to lead hosts Australia by two shots in the battle for the Nomura Cup. The New Zealanders have a combined score of 415, one-under par after 36 holes in wind-swept conditions.

Australia managed an even-par 213 yesterday to narrow the gap, while the remainder of the 15 competing nations struggled in strong winds and humid conditions. Japan are third, nine shots behind New Zealand, on 434, the Philippines a further five shots back in fourth with Pakistan and Korea sharing fifth place on 443, 18 shots behind the leaders.

"We still have the lead and there was some good play out there today, although the conditions were quite tough," coach Mal Tongue said. "The winds really got up and with some more demanding pin placements, it was a real test and most teams struggled.

As in the first round on Tuesday, the New Zealand team had opportunities yesterday, with Wellington's Brad Iles bagging six birdies in the opening 12 holes, before dropping shots on the way home to finish with an even-par 71.

Waikato's Mathew Holten and first-round star Mark Smith (Rotorua) were solid if unspectacular, scoring 75 and 76 respectively.

Shilton had a slow start yesterday, turning at two-over par before rattling home with five birdies in the final nine holes for his three-under 68.

"It was another case of what should have been. With Brad Shilton home with 68, we needed more support. We could have been 10 shots clear right now," said Tongue.
"Still should-have-beens don't count. We are still leading and we have yet to fully click as a combination.

Tongue said the tee-to-green game from the New Zealanders is in good shape.

"We are not losing out on length at all here. But the key to scoring is course management. We have got to be smart, and really think our way around this place."
Australia were steady yesterday, led by new US Amateur champion Nick Flanagan. He bounced back from Tuesday's non-counting five-over par 76 with a one-under 70 to lead the hosts.

Shilton is the leading individual with a one-under par 141, a shot ahead of James Nitties (Australia), Yuki Ishikawa (Japan) and Jerome Delariarte (Philippines).