Levi increases advantage to two shots

Wayne Levi shot a 4-under 68 Saturday to take a two-stroke lead after two rounds of the Constellation Energy Classic.

Levi followed a first-round 64 with three birdies in his first five holes and an eagle on the par-5 16th. He bogeyed the par-4 17th, but closed with a par at the 18th to finish at 12-under 132.

Jose Maria Canizares and Graham Marsh had 66s and were two strokes back at 134. Gil Morgan (67) and Bob Gilder (67) were at 135 at Hayfields Country Club.

Jerry Pate (66) and Tom Watson (68) were at 8 under, four strokes back. Watson is set for arthroscopic surgery on his left hip on Tuesday and hopes to return in time for the 2005 Masters.

Levi made a big move at the par-5 16th, hitting his second shot from 200 yards to within 15 feet and then making the eagle putt.

``Just how you draw it up,'' the 52-year-old said.

Levi won 12 titles on the PGA Tour and is trying for his second victory on the 50-and-over circuit.

``I don't feel as good as I used to. But I've won a lot of tournaments, more than people think. I don't hit the ball real far, but I hit it very straight and solid. I hit a lot of precise shots.

``I've still got a good touch. If I get enough close putts, I'll make a few.''

Those chasing Levi agree they'll likely need their best effort to move ahead on the leaderboard.

``If he shoots 66 or so it will probably be over,'' said Morgan, who made eagle at the par-5 fifth. ``I'm glad to be in position and hope to be among the leaders.''

Canizares, within a stroke until Levi made eagle at No. 16, knows he needs to go low to have a chance at the title.

``I think I'll need a 64 or 65 to have a chance,'' he said.

Levi agreed.

``It's going to be a shootout out there,'' Levi said. ``You're going to have to shoot pretty far under par because everybody's going to do the same thing.''

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