Francesco Molinari matched the lowest halfway total of the European Tour season Friday and held a one-stroke lead after the second round of the Portugal Masters.
The Italian shot a 6-under 66, with five birdies and a bogey on the back nine, for a 15-under total of 129 to keep his overnight lead.
South African Charl Schwartzel made three straight birdies from the 15th, but then finished with a bogey for a second successive 65.
Padraig Harrington, who was tied for 32nd overnight, collected 10 birdies as he carded a 10-under 62 to leap into third place on 13 under.
Retief Goosen and Pablo Martin were tied for fourth place, a further shot behind. Martin became the first amateur to win a title on the circuit when he won the Portuguese Open two years ago.
