Karlsson on course to defend title

Defending champion Robert Karlsson of Sweden shot a 4-under-par 67 Friday to lead the European Masters by one stroke after two rounds.

Karlsson, who led after every round last year, was at 10-under 132. Argentina's Eduardo Romero, the 2000 champion, was at 133 after his 67.

"I just seem to get into a pretty good flow on this course, and that seems to make it easier," Karlsson said.

South Africa's Ernie Els, who shared the first-round lead with Karlsson, had a 69 and is tied with countryman Trevor Immelman (66) and New Zealand's Michael Campbell (67) at 134.

The European Masters is the first event of yearlong European qualifying for places on next year's Ryder Cup team.

Karlsson overcame a double-bogey 5 at the short third hole.

"I just said OK because you know you are going to get birdie chances, so just be patient and play," said Karlsson, who had five birdies after another bogey at the fifth hole.

South Africa's Richard Sterne, who had two eagles in his 64, England's Paul Eales and Sweden's Patrik Sjoland are tied for sixth. Nathan Fritz, an American who played in college at UTEP, is tied for ninth after a 66.

Spain's Seve Ballesteros withdrew before the second round with a recurring back injury.

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