Birthday boy Fisher flying high in Holland

Oliver Fisher gave himself the perfect birthday present with a round of 65 on the second day of the KLM Open.

The Englishman celebrated his 25th birthday with a near faultless display at Kennemer Golf and Country Club, climbing to eight under par and within touching distance of the lead.

With only the top 110 keeping their cards for next season, Fisher faces a battle to retain his playing privileges, having slipped to 118th place in The Race to Dubai.

But if the Londoner was feeling any pressure he certainly did not show it in Zandvoort, notching six birdies to put himself firmly in contention to capture his second European Tour title.

“I’ve played very nicely for two days now, so it’s nice to get your rewards,” he said.

“It helps that the course is in great shape – we’re very lucky to be playing on greens this good, given the amount of rain we’ve had. If you can keep it in play round here you’re going to have a fair few chances, and luckily enough I managed to take a few chances today.

“But I’m not going to get too carried away, I don’t pay too much attention to leaderboards on Friday – it’s Sunday that counts. It’s obviously nice to be playing well, that’s more important than where I am on the leaderboard.

“You wouldn’t know it by looking at my results, but I’ve been playing pretty well all year, and haven’t struggled with my long game like I have in previous seasons. I’m feeling quite comfortable out there, and as a result I’m enjoying myself much more. I’m in a good frame of mind, and hopefully that can continue.”