May5 Euroitalylatest

Nick Dougherty was in electric form as he closed in on glory at a thunder-struck Italian Open.

The Englishman closed to just one shot of the lead as rain, lightning and hail whipped around the course. The weather has been so bad that the event is now just 54 holes – three rounds –  istead of the usual 72 holes and four rounds.

South African Andrew McLardy shot another 65 to lead at 14 under. But Dougherty went one better with a 64 to follow his opening 67.

Joakim Backstrom is just two back. His second-round 70 saw him end up at 12 under. He was pleased, despite failing to match the fireworks of his opening-round 62. That was a course record, but he is still very much in the hunt with the final round looming large tomorrow.