He might not have made a major impression on the Australian Masters leaderboard but teen star Ryan Ruffels has made an impression on defending champion Adam Scott.
The 16-year-old Victorian amateur is tied for 30th midway through the Metropolitan golf club tournament after holding his own in a group with Scott and 2006 US Open champion Geoff Ogilvy.
After an opening 75, Ruffels – the son of former professional tennis players Ray and Annamaria – matched Scott’s second-round four-under 68, while Ogilvy carded a 71.
Scott is in a group tied for 12th while Ogilvy is with four others tied for seventh.
US Masters winner Scott thought Ruffels had a big future.
“He’s a really promising player,” the world No.2 said.
“He hung in there when he was off the mark on a couple holes.
“He scrambles well. He’s got a nice short game and he certainly putts nice.
“It will be fun to watch him play over the next few years and develop.”
Ruffels will tee off in Saturday’s third round mid-morning with Sydney-sider Benjamin Clementson while Scott has been paired with Kim Felton hitting off at just before midday (AEDT).
Overnight leader Michael Wright, who was two shots clear of the field, will play in the last group with South Australian Paul Spargo, who was at seven under.
European PGA player Richard Green will tee off with Melbourne amateur Todd Sinnott, with the pair three off the pace.