Dara Lernihan is the clubhouse leader in the East of Ireland Amateur Open at County Louth Golf Club.
The 21-year-old Dubliner from the Castle Golf Club carded a one under par 71 this morning and continues to head the field on five under par, three strokes clear of Westport's Cathal O'Malley, who carded a second successive 71.
Overnight leader Eoin Arthurs is the next best on two-under par after following his opening 66 with a 76 in firm and fast conditions at the sun-baked Baltray links.
Walker Cup player Jonny Caldwell from Clandeboye looks like the only man who can threaten Lernihan at the top after getting to two under par for the championship early on the back nine after a faltering start.
Irish Close and West of Ireland champion Shane Lowry was five over par with nine to play and in danger of missing the cut.
The top 50 will play the final 36 holes tomorrow.
