A run of seven birdies in 10 holes earned South African Andrew McLardy a two-shot lead early in the second round of the 54-hole Italian Open today.

Officials decided earlier in the day that the rain-shortened tournament would be played over three rounds.
   
McLardy, bidding to follow up compatriot Charl Schwartzel's Spanish Open win last week, carded his second seven-under 65 to finish on 130, 14 under.
   
Spaniard Alvaro Quiros (67) and Markus Brier of Austria (69) shared second place in the clubhouse on 12-under.
   
McLardy told reporters he wanted to climb the European Tour money-list before his wife Toni had their first child later this month.
   
"I want to try to get as high up the order of merit as possible with the baby coming," said McLardy, who is seeking his maiden victory in Europe.
   
"I'm going to be taking seven weeks off and missing some big events."
   
Joakim Backstrom of Sweden, who broke the Tolcinasco course record with an opening 62, was 11-under overall after seven holes of his second round.
   
Peter Lawrie is the best-placed Irishman after a second round 70 left the Dubliner tied 30th on six under alongside American Tom Lehman (68).

Gary Murphy is a shot further back following his 68, while Paul McGinley (69) finished one shot outside the projected cut mark on three under. David Higgins was one under with four to play

The third and final round will not start until tomorrow.