SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ, France, Oct 5 AAP – Overnight leader Stacey Keating fell two strokes off the pace in the second round of the Ladies French Open on Friday.
The Australian, attempting to win back to back European titles after victory in the Canary Islands a fortnight ago, shot one-over 71 at Chantaco Golf Club in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, south-west France.
The 26-year-old Keating is seven under overall, two behind Italian Diana Luna who shot 64.
“It was never going to be the same day as yesterday, was it,” Keating said of her career-best opening round of 62.
“That’s golf, it’s disappointing to not finish under par today but that’s how it goes.
“I just didn’t hit as many greens so I didn’t have as many birdie opportunities.
“I’m contending so that’s nice. There’s a long way to go and I’m looking forward to it.”
Luna, a five-time winner on the Ladies European Tour, struck seven birdies but had a bogey on the par-four 14th.
Carlota Ciganda, Anja Monke and Anne-Lise Caudal are in a tie for third on five under.
Monke put herself into contention with the round of the day, the German recovering from a mediocre 72 on Thursday with a fabulous second-round 63.