Edfors lead the Qatar Masters

DOHA, Qatar, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Johan Edfors shot a 6-under-par 66 Friday to build a two-stroke lead midway through the European Tour's Commercialbank Qatar Masters at Doha, Qatar.

His 36-hole total was 9-under 135 marking the first time the native of Sweden has led an event after two rounds.

Edfors sank six birdies in a seven-hole stretch beginning at the 14th and closed with seven consecutive pars to finish off the best round of the day.

"I wasn't very happy with the way I was playing last year and how I was feeling on the course," he said. "I wasn't enjoying myself as much as I usually do, and changed some aspects especially during tournament week so now I think I'm getting back into the shape that I want to be."

First round co-leader Lee Westwood (70) and Charl Schwartzel (67) share second place at 7-under 137.

Defending champion Henrik Stenson (139) is among 16 players within five shots of Edfors.