(Arras, France June 20 2003) England’s Trish Johnson and Lynnette Brooky from New Zealand share the halfway lead on six under par after the second round of the €275,000 Open de France Dames at le Golf d’Arras.

Brooky – aiming to defend title

“I never felt like I was playing badly this season, but a good finish certainly helps bring your confidence back and so does having a proper Tour caddie. It’s made a lot of difference and I’m sure the caddie association would love me for saying that!”

Brooky was more disappointed with her putting, but still managed to delve under par as she aims to become the first player to retain a title since 1996 when England’s Laura Davies successfully defended two tournaments, the English Open and Evian Masters.

“I had a few putts out there that should have gone in and I three putted the 17th after being a bit too aggressive.

“But everything is comfortable and tomorrow I’m going to tee it up with Trish, she’s a great player to play with and I’m sure we’ll both enjoy it.”