Thornton takes leading role
Monday November 23 2009
Simon Thornton is the best-placed Irish player heading into the closing round of the European Tour's qualifying school stage two in Spain.
He posted a one-under 71 at Sherry Golf for a four-under 212 and shares eighth, seven shots behind frontrunner, Philip Archer, in the race for 18 final spots on offer. Colm Moriarty slipped to a two-over 74 but stayed in the qualifying zone on a 213.
At Hacienda Del Alamo, Jonathan Caldwell stayed on course after a one-under 71. He finished in a tie for 15th on a four-under 212, 12 strokes behind US leader Ryan Blaum.
Royal Dublin's Niall Kearney gave his hopes of securing a final berth a major boost with a five-under 67 at Costa Ballena and lurks just a stroke outside the qualifying places.
John Kelly also kept his hopes alive with a battling 68 for a 211.
At Arcos Gardens, Michael Collins fired a four-under 68 for a 216 to move to within two shots of a top 19 place needed to qualify.
Irish Independent
