Clarke shoots 64 to share halfway lead at KLM Open

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ZANDVOORT, Netherlands (AP) -- Darren Clarke shot a 6-under 64 Friday to join Robert Rock and Alexander Noren in the lead after the second round of the KLM Open.

It was Clarke's lowest European Tour round since 1999 and moved him to 8-under 132, putting him in contention for a Ryder Cup wild card on Nick Faldo's team.

"I need to play well this week and next week and so far this week I've done that," the Northern Irishman said. "If Nick then feels I am worthy of a pick so be it. If not then that's acceptable."

Noren, a Swede who is seeking his first title of the season, shot a second straight 66 while Rock carded a 64 after making four birdies in five holes from the 11th.

Henrik Stenson of Sweden -- who has already secured a spot on the European Ryder Cup team -- and Englishman Ross McGowan were tied for fourth, one shot behind the leaders.

Justin Rose, who is seeking one of the last three automatic spots on Faldo's team, is tied for 14th after a 69. Overnight leader Rolf Muntz was also in that 10-man group after only managing a 72 to follow up his first-round 64.

Noren finished third here last year, and said he was looking for a better result this weekend.

"I just love this golf course," he said. "I love playing in the wind, it's fun, but today was calmer and I managed to score well again."

The KLM Open is one of the last chances -- along with next week's Johnnie Walker Championship in Scotland -- to earn a Ryder Cup spot.

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