Whiteford takes Avantha lead after 2nd round

Peter Whiteford of Scotland shot a 4-under 68 Friday to take a two-shot lead after the second round of the Avantha Masters. Whiteford, who shared the first-round lead with Alejandro Canizares of Spain after a 66, moved to 10-under 134 at the halfway stage as he seeks his first win on the European Tour. Canizares is tied for 16th after a second-round 73 left him with a 139 total. Prom Meesawat of Thailand is second at 8 under after shooting 64 in the second round. Whiteford, who had five birdies and sank a 30-yard eagle putt on the par-five sixth, said he had a fine day despite starting play in cold weather. ''Once it warmed up a bit I started to play better and gave myself a few chances,'' Whiteford said. ''I wouldn't say the swing feels brilliant, but sometimes that's when you play your best golf - when you're struggling a wee bit.'' Whiteford said he needs to play another solid round to remain in contention on the last day. ''My improved driving has helped me in the tournament even though I did not use it so much today. I just need to concentrate - to be 10 under is very good, but I wouldn't say I'm overly confident,'' he said. John Daly, a two-time major winner with titles at the 1991 PGA Championship and the 1995 British Open, withdrew with an elbow injury during his first-round 7-over 79 on Thursday.