Swede smell of sucess for Patrik Sjoland

Patrik Sjoland brought a welcome sense of perspective to the trials and tribulations of the world's elite at Carnoustie.

The Swedish Ryder Cup prospect added a second round 72 to his opening 74 for a four-over total of 150 to keep him right in contention for the Open crown.

And he put his success down to keeping the testing course and conditions in perspective, knowing that he is lucky to be here at all following a near-fatal car crash.

The 28-year-old, born in Sweden but based in Marbella, was involved in an horrific crash in January 1992 when he was sent hurtling through the sun roof.

He spent a week in a coma and a month in all in intensive care and had to had his spleen removed and was just grateful for the opportunity to play golf again.

"This is the tournament all the Europeans would like to win and be in contention for after two rounds," said Sjoland, currently 18th in the Ryder Cup points table.

"When I was injured in my car crash it was moments like this which kept me going. I never gave up and I didn't hit a golf shot for five months after the crash.

"I said to be myself that I was lucky to be alive and just get on with things. When things get tough I remember it's only golf, not life or death.

"I'm lucky to be alive and to play good golf is a bonus."

Sjoland's good form was a welcome change for him in Open week. His girlfriend Ulrika has been taken ill with stomach problems and has been able to caddy for him as usual.

But at least her illness is not as serious as last year when she also became sick in Open week and had to have her appendix removed a few days later.