Phil Mickelson remains in control of the US PGA Tour event at Riviera Country Club midway through the second round.

Mickelson shot a one-under-par 70 in the morning wave to move to six under par for the tournament and take a two-shot lead over his nearest rivals.

Americans Jimmy Walker (66), Matt Kuchar (69) and Brendan Steele (through one hole) plus Swede Carl Pettersen (70) are tied second at four under par.

Mickelson, who just last week won the US Tour event at Pebble Beach, wasn’t quite as crisp as during the first round but still managed to keep early challengers at bay.

Some late bogeys cruelled his chances of a bigger lead however he was helped by a penultimate hole eagle when he jarred it in from 110yards.

Marc Leishman heads the Australian assault after a two-under-par 69 left the Victorian at three under par and in a tie for sixth.

The Victorian posted four birdies and two bogeys in a clever scrambling round to remain well in contention for a maiden win. Mat Goggin is the next best Australian, currently at even par through three holes of his second round.

Jason Day (71) finished round two at two over par for the tournament but should make the weekend however Geoff Ogilvy (73) won’t be around after ending at five over.

Adam Scott and defending champion Aaron Baddeley headline the afternoon Australian tilt but need to play well to ensure weekend play.