Ewing extends Women's British Open lead, SA trio miss cut

Ally Ewing will be trying to emulate fellow-American Brian Harman as she steps into the weekend with a five shot lead after a brilliant second round 66 in the final major of the season, the Women's Open at Walton Heath on Friday.

Harman led by five on Friday and Saturday evening before going on to win the British Open by six shots at Hoylake last month.

Defending champion and South African golfer Ashleigh Buhai shot 73 for three over and missed the cut by a shot.

Meanwhile, Buhai joined fellow countrywoman Paula Reto and Lee-Anne Pace in missing the weekend.

Ewing, a three-time winner on the LPGA Tour, similarly hopes she can hang on and collect a coveted first major.

The 30-year-old led by one after an opening 68 and a seven birdie round put her on 10-under par and in control at the halfway stage.

Home favourite Charley Hull (68), American Andrea Lee (68) and Japan's Minami (Katsu 69) were the closest challengers in a share of second spot on five under par.

Ewing had a magical run of four birdies in a row from the sixth and her only mistake came at the tough closing hole where she drove into the rough and took a bogey five.

"I was definitely in the zone when I had that string of birdies," said Ewing.

"I didn't even realise that I had four in a row until I signed my card. But I just tried to stay in the here and now.

"Brian Harman does give me inspiration. You know, I think a lot of people. I wouldn't say they were routing against him but they wanted other people to win.

"I can relate to that, but I'm certainly very happy with my position after 36 holes."

She also revealed that hunting is something else she has in common with new Open Champion.

"I know it's not going to be interpreted well by the media, but it's something I do.

"You