Leader Ochoa maintains Open edge despite late lapse

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2007

ST ANDREWS, Scotland (AFP) — Mexico's world number one Lorena Ochoa retained the Women's British Open lead after a second round 73 on Friday, but she was just one ahead of local favourite Catriona Matthew and US Solheim Cup player Wendy Ward.

Ochoa, two ahead after an opening 67, three-putted the 18th at the Old Course for a six under par total, while Matthew had a faultless five under par 68 and Ward, who also three-putted the last, shot 70.

Ochoa, a 25-year-old from Guadalajara, admitted she was "very pleased" with her effort despite the lapse at the last, and she is in a great position going into a weekend that she hopes will earn her 13th career major and a lucky first major.

"I hit my second shot into the wrong position at the last but it was still a...