Jones will take a one-shot lead into round three

The American 43-year-old took a one-shot lead over Mexican rookie Lorena Ochoa, after making birdies at the final two holes.

American Juli Inkster and Sweden's Sophie Gustafson were a further shot behind Ochoa.

Gustafson made her move up the leaderboard with a brilliant finish of three birdies and an eagle to finish with a round of 68.

"It was the perfect way to finish," said the winner of last month's Irish Open.

"It took me from the pack right into contention."

EVIAN MASTERS LEADERBOARD (US unless stated) -9 R Jones -8 L Ochoa (Mex) -6 S Gustafson (Swe), J Inkster -5 H-W Han (Kor), C Kerr, J Jang (Kor), J Moodie (GB) Clubhouse totals

Britain's Janice Moodie missed the chance to head the European challenge when she three-putted the final hole for a one-under 71.

But the Scot remained well in contention at the half-way stage on a five-under par 139.

"It was careless and stupid," admitted Moodie after her round.

"But I'm still right in there and it promises to be an exciting weekend. There's a few of us all up near the top and two rounds to go."

Missing from the 31 names on par or better was world number one Annika Sorenstam.

The defending champion, who pulled out of the Canadian Open two weeks ago due to exhaustion, carded a 73 for a one-over 145.

Laura Davies, the only Briton to have won the title, had a 76 for 146.

The 1995 and 1996 champion signed off with a bogey to slip down the field.