SECOND ROUND SCORES GB & Ire unless stated - 1 C Stadler (US) + 1 G Norman (Aus) +3 D Smyth +4 E Romero (Arg), G Cali (Ita), L Roberts (US)

The Australian, returning after back surgery, birdied three of the last four holes to card a four-under 67.

Stadler had become the first player to break the par of 71, hitting four birdies on his way to a 68.

Ireland's Des Smyth lies in third on three over with Tom Watson a shot further back after carding a 71.

"The difference was that we just got used to the wind," said Norman, who is making his debut on the Seniors tour.

"I hit a lot more good shots too, which is helpful. Controlling the distance is crucial around here and just staying patient is also very important."

One of the pre-tournament favourites, Tom Kite, missed the cut after disappointing rounds of 83 and 77.

Defending champion Pete Oakley also went out, finishing on 20 over after a second round of 80.