Hennie du Plessis made a closing eagle to claim the halfway lead on his own at the BMW International Open and boost his bid for a maiden DP World Tour title.
The South African held a share of the first-round lead after a flawless eight-under-par 64 but patience was all important in the early stages of his second round.
It wasn't until the 11th that he made his first birdie of the day, before a strong finish saw him card a 69 to reach 11 under and hold a one-shot lead at Golfclub München Eichenried.
Countryman Michael Hollick, Mexico's Carlos Ortiz and England's Jack Senior are his closest challengers in Germany, where the final event of the DP World Tour's European Swing is taking place.
On track for his career-best season on the DP World Tour, having finished in the top five across three consecutive starts on his home continent from late February to early March, Du Plessis is in the hunt to become the tenth first-time winner this campaign.
"I think I'm comfortable with my game," said Du Plessis. "I don't necessarily say I'm comfortable around this golf course. I think it's very demanding.
"You need to drive it well. Obviously putt well, so I don't know. It's hard to say that I'm feeling comfortable. I think I'm just comfortable with my game at the moment.
"It's fun. I haven't been in contention since the Joburg Open and [Investec] SA Open, so it's been a good nine to 10 weeks since that.
"I'm very excited, very excited to be in the mix. It's a pleasure to be in the mix on the DP World Tour, so I'm very happy and grateful."
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