South African Retief Goosen took an outright lead at the halfway stage of the Northern Trust Open, despite falling short of his opening-day display in firm conditions.
Goosen, who last won a title five years ago, was part of a six-strong group at the top of the leaderboard after the first day, but a 30-foot birdie putt on his final hole on day two earned him a one-shot lead of his own at Riviera Country Club.
It was a strong finish on the back nine, after dropping two shots earlier in the day, that saw the 46-year-old card a one-under 70 to sit on six under overall.
"It's been such a long time since I've last been in contention," Goosen told the PGA Tour website.
"Who knows how my game is going to hold up? But I'm feeling good. My back is feeling great. So if the nerves can hold, just continue to make good golf swings and make a few good putts, who knows?"
Ryan Moore, his American compatriot Justin Thomas and Canadian Graham DeLaet are all hot in his heels on five under, though, after carding rounds of 68, 69, and 67 respectively on Friday.
Argentinian Angel Cabrera is next in the pecking order, just above a five-strong group on three under, which includes Englishman Paul Casey.
Casey carded 69, one better than on Thursday, after starting his day off in perfect fashion with an eagle on the first hole.
American duo Bubba Watson and Jordan Speith join him in the pack three shots behind, with all of them finely poised to chase Goosen over the weekend.
Vijay Singh will be disappointed with his efforts on Friday after falling four shots behind the top of the leaderboard with a three-over 74 on day two.
