Coles in halfway lead

Rob Coles (Maylands Golf & Country Club) shot a four-under-par 67 to open up a narrow lead at the East Anglian Open @ The Rayleigh Club.

The former European Tour star made five birdies – including three in his last six holes – to boost his bid to maintain his top-three place in the Order of Merit.

But Coles will have his work cut out on the second day to keep at bay the chasing pack as there are no less than 24 players within three strokes of him.

Indeed, he has seven golfers just a shot back after a high-quality first day at the Essex venue.

Among those breathing down his neck is James Webber (Three Rivers Golf & Country Club), who is seeking to finish top of the Order of Merit.

He began the week in second place in the standings and his first-round 68 has given him a great chance of knocking Ian Campbell (Cheshunt Park) from first place.

Long-time Order of Merit leader Campbell began the final event of the season with a one-under-70 and lies tied-16th at halfway.

James Ruebotham (Welwyn Garden City) – fourth in the Order of Merit – needs a very low one on day two if he is push his way into the top-three who will make it through to next month’s PGA Play-Offs at Saunton.