SYDNEY (AP) -- Australian journeyman James Nitties played his last nine holes in 29 to snatch a one-stroke lead at the midway point of the Australian Open on Friday as his compatriot Adam Scott matched that 7-under 65 to surge into contention for his second national title.
Nitties shot 65 to establish a one-shot lead at 9-under par 135 over New Zealand's Ryan Fox who has had back-to-back rounds of 68.
Scott was two shots back in a tie for fourth place at 6-under, having rallied impressively after a disappointing opening 73 at Royal Sydney.