Local favourite Min Woo Lee is in the lead at the halfway point of the Australian Open. -AAP Image
LEADERS (Men): Min Woo Lee (131) finished the day in style, usurping Scotsman Connor Syme and US golfer Patrick Rodgers (both 134) to grab a three-shot advantage. Home favourites Matt Jones, Lucas Herbert and Cameron Davis (all 137) seem the most likely to make a weekend charge.
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LEADERS: (Women): Jiyai Shin (136) holds a two-stroke lead over reigning champion Ashleigh Buhai, who sits solo in second. South Korean Jenny Shin holds outright third (139) with a trio of Aussie amateurs - Justice Bosio (141), Sarah Hammett and Caitlin Peirce (both 142) hot on her tail. Amateur Rachel Lee (146), who led after Thursday's play, slipped down the pecking order.
PLAYER OF THE ROUND: Could it be anybody but Min Woo Lee? Shushing the fans before sinking putts, throwing balls into the crowd and finishing the day with a brilliant eagle on the par-5 last hole.
SHOT OF THE ROUND: In the bunker off his tee shot on the par-3 fourth hole at The Australian, showman Lee rescued himself in style by chipping free and into the hole to record a birdie.
QUOTE OF THE ROUND: "You want it just a little bit more badly when you're in front of your own people. So it's always tough when you go back playing at home." - Defending champion Buhai believes the pressure is on her Australian rivals.
TOURNAMENT SUMMARY: Can Buhai make a charge in the women's draw and continue her success down under? Jiyai Shin and Jenny Shin will pose formidable threats. Lee will hope to keep his men's lead after finding a sweet spot and has vowed to continue his aggressive approach as he seeks to win a second tournament in a week.
