Despite not being enthusiastic about two even-par rounds in the Stonebridge Open in the USA, Michael Sims is among the front-runners challenging for honours in today's third and final round of competition, writes Gayle Alleyne.

Yesterday, the Bermudian duplicated Wednesday's first-round score of 72 to be at even-par 144 after two rounds of the New England Pro Tour event being played at Stonebridge Country Club in Gottstown, New Hampshire.

Though not spectacular, his efforts left him handsomely placed - tied for sixth overall with five others and four shots shy of the leader Tele Wightman.

"Today (yesterday) was better because I hit the ball better. Technically, (Wednesday) would have been considered better because I got 72 though I didn't play that well," said the 23-year-old.

The rookie pro golfer was heartened by the fact that he played through rain and chilly temperatures to make yesterday's cut which was at seven-over 151.

"It was quite difficult out there today. It was raining but they don't stop for that, only if there's lightning," he said chuckling.

While he does not want to pressure himself to shoot a particular score today, Sims - joint fifth in last week's New England event, the Blackstone National Open - would love to close this tournament with a flourish.

"I'd like to have another good ball-shooting day (today) and hopefully some putts will fall. I'd like to shoot under-par and see where it takes me.

"I've been trying to get more comfortable and I felt a lot more comfortable today than I did yesterday."