South African's move two clear

South African's Trevor Immelman and Rory Sabbatini teamed up to shoot a three-under-par 69 on Friday to move into the lead in the WGC-World Cup.

South Africa are at five-under-par 139, two shots ahead of the United States (70) and France (72), and three ahead of Wales (74). Argentina (73) are alone in fifth at one-under 143.

First-round leaders Germany ballooned to a 77 and are tied for sixth at even-par 144.

There were just three under-par rounds shot in Friday's foursome, alternate-shot format, nine fewer than in Thursday's opening round when the winds were more severe.

"The birdies aren't easy to find because every hole, even the easy holes, is a challenge," Sabbatini said. "You have to grind it out and stick with what you know. We were fortunate today."

Immelman and Sabbatini are only ranked 57th and 71st in the world respectively.

The pair are seeking to become the fifth South African team to win the World Cup and first since Ernie Els and Retief Goosen won in 2001.

"Obviously it's a pity that Ernie and Retief aren't here, from a world championship point of view," Immelman said. "But it's great to have an opportunity."

The South Africans made the most of that opportunity Friday, recording four birdies and a bogey to move up a leaderboard that underwent a major overhaul.

Americans Justin Leonard and Jim Furyk, who have never been paired together in an alternate-shot format despite their numerous Ryder and Presidents Cup appearances, took a few holes to find a rhythm and record the day's second-best round.

"I think the biggest adjustment is timing," Leonard said of playing alternate shot golf.

"Today, on this golf course it seemed like I would go three or four holes without putting and then all of a sudden for three or four straight holes I was putting.

"But I think our games are similar and I think that makes this format easier."

Germany went out in 37, but then notched double bogeys at the par-four 13th and 18th holes on the inward nine.

Cejka left shots in the fairway bunker on both holes and also at the par-three 14th, which led to a bogey.

"That's where we really got screwed," said Cejka of the double bogeys. "It was not necessary. We had a few chances, but it's halfway. Anything is possible."

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