RAS AL KHAIMAH, United Arab Emirates — English golfer Marcus Armitage maintained his lead at the Ras Al Khaimah Championship, although his margin was reduced to two strokes following his second-round performance of 3-under 69 on Friday.

The golfer, currently ranked 324th, wrapped up his round with birdies on the last two holes at Al Hamra Golf Club, keeping his hopes alive for a first victory since claiming the European Open title in 2021.

After an impressive first round where he shot 63, Armitage entered the weekend with a total score of 12-under par, having started with a commanding four-shot lead.

In a close contest, fellow English golfer Dan Brown carded a 64 to sit in second place, joined by Spain’s Alejandro del Rey, who finished the day with a score of 66.

The American golfer Johannes Veerman also showcased an impressive round, scoring 64, which placed him two strokes behind Armitage in fourth position.