EUROPEAN GOLF Goosen has 2-shot Open lead in Ireland

The U.S. Open champ is at 9 under after two rounds.
STRAFFAN, Ireland (AP) -- U.S. Open champion Retief Goosen shot a 6-under 66 on Friday to take a two-stroke lead at the European Open.
Despite dealing with blustery winds and a heavy downpour late in his round, the South African had six birdies and no bogeys.
He is at 9 under after two rounds and leads Dutchman Maarten Lafeber, while Lee Westwood is three strokes back.
Lafeber, who entered the round with a share of the lead, shot a 70. Westwood had his second straight 69.
Seven-time Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie missed the cut, shooting a 10-over 82 as the winds intensified later in the day. He carded a 45 on the front nine.
Surprised at play
Goosen won at Shinnecock Hills, N.Y., 12 days ago and only unpacked his clubs Tuesday.
He didn't expect to challenge because he was tired.
"In a way, I'm a little surprised at the way I'm playing," Goosen said. "The wind was a bit stronger and it was a little colder, too. But they have moved a couple of tees up, and the greens are perfect so you can make up for any mistakes on the greens."
Told that another player, Paul McGinley, called him the world's best current player, Goosen referred to Vijay Singh and Ernie Els.
"I think Vijay and Ernie have been playing well for a long time," he said. "I'd have to play as well as this for a few more months to make that true."
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