HOUSTON – Andrew Putnam made a late charge to pass three-time Masters champion Phil Mickelson and take a one-shot lead after two rounds of the Houston Open.
The 26-year-old Putman, who made his PGA Tour debut here a year ago, birdied six of his final nine holes on the Golf Course of Houston’s front side for a 7-under 65. He was at 12-under 132.
Mickelson, who won the even in 2011, shot 67 for a share of second place at 133. He had gone into his post-round news conference assuming he’d be leading the tournament. Another late finisher, qualifier Austin Cook, matched Putnam for the day’s low scores with a 65 of his own to tie Mickelson.
Weyburn, Sask., native Graham DeLaet (67) and Luke Guthrie (68) were tied for fourth at 134.
Scott Piercy, who had a two-shot lead after a tournament course record-tying 63 in the first round, had a 74.
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