Wisecracking McDowell and Garcia close on Fisher

By Tony Jimenez

ASH (Reuters) - Playing partners Graeme McDowell and Sergio Garcia mixed wisecracks with moments of golfing wizardry to move within striking distance of Ross Fisher after the European Open second round on Friday.

Fisher followed his opening course record, nine-under-par 63 with a more sedate 68 to set the pace on 13-under 131 at the London Club.

"My game didn't feel quite as sharp as it did yesterday but I'm pretty pleased to be leading," the 27-year-old told reporters.

"Yesterday everything went in. I took 23 putts, holed a bunker shot and holed a putt from off the green. It was always going to be difficult to repeat that."

Fellow Briton McDowell fired a 67 to take second place on 132, three ahead of Garcia who crammed seven birdies and an eagle in a 64. Dane Soren Hansen (67) was fourth on 136.

"There was a bit of banter going on," said McDowell. "We had a really good time.

"I'm not sure if any of the jokes are printable. Our two caddies are pretty much best friends too and the stories were flying round."

McDowell began a calm, sunny day at the 10th and made a fast start with three birdies in the first six holes.