Golf-Masters-Mickelson takes comfort from lucky 13 at Augusta

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

AUGUSTA, Georgia, April 11 (Reuters) - Thirteen was a lucky number for Phil Mickelson when he won his first U.S. Masters in 2004 and the omens are favourable for a repeat bonus in this week's tournament.

Four years ago, the American left-hander was fortunate not to end up in the creek guarding the front of the par-five 13th green at Augusta National.

Mickelson's ball stayed out of the water and he took advantage of his close call by making a birdie there en route to claiming his maiden major title.

Twice this week, he has narrowly avoided landing in the same creek with his second shot, making a birdie at the 13th in the opening round followed by a par on Friday.

"I'm kind of using that as an omen," a smiling Mickelson told reporters after charging into contention with a four-under-par 68 in the second round.

"I've hit two shots now, yesterday and today, that should have been in that creek and both of them stayed up.

"I think I'm going to try to play a little more left tomorrow," added the world number two after posting a five-under total of 139 to lie three strokes off the pace.