Harrington forges ahead in Madrid

Madrid Open update

Madrid Open update

Padraig Harrington maintained his advantage ahead of the field in the Madrid Open this afternoon despite a strong challenge from Australia's Adam Scott.

The 31-year-old Dubliner was four-under for his round through seven holes, courtesy of an eagle at the fourth followed by birdies at the sixth and seventh.Harrington commanded a narrow one stroke lead on 15-under from Scott who was also four-under for the day.

Veteran Des Smyth, who shot a career best 63 yesterday slipped a little off the pace after reaching the turn in level par to remain on 10-under.

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Harrington, who is in pursuit of Retief Goosen for the Order of Merit title, was five ahead of the South African who was three-under with holes left to play.

Further Irish interest was cut short after both Paul McGinley and Graeme McDowell failed to make the halfway cut.