Miñoza improves to 2nd

MANILA, Philippines - Frankie Miñoza nearly blew a sterling round with bogeys on two of the last four holes as he settled for a four-under par 68 to move up to second halfway through the Black Mountain Masters at the Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand yesterday.

That fine start included an eagle on the par-5 No. 6 and four birdies as the ace Filipino shotmaker, who opened with a 67 Thursday, moved to within one shot of two-day leader Johan Edfors of Sweden after 14 holes.

But he dropped shots on Nos. 15 and 16 before closing out with back-to-back pars for that 32-36 card and a 36-hole aggregate of nine-under 135 in a tie with Aussie Darren Beck, firing a 66, for second.

The big-hitting Edfors played a steady round of 68 from four birdies against a lone bogey, staying on top with a 132 for a three-shot lead over the veteran Filipino campaigner.

Jason King, also of Australia, also carded a 68 to be at 136 while Korean teener Noh Seung-yui made a 71 and stood at 137 in a tie with Thai ace Chapchai Nirat, who had a 68.

But while Miñoza, 49, remained on track for his first title bid in the $500,000 event, the other Filipino bets struggled in windy conditions with Artemio Murakami settling for a 72 and a 140.

Angelo Que, who shot a 68 in the first round, fumbled with a 73 for a 141 while Tony Lascuña also matched par 72 for a 143. Also advancing to the weekend play were Juvic Pagunsan and Jerome Delariarte, who both had 144s after a 73 and 70, respectively.