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Rory McIlroy two shots off Peter Hanson

McIlroy two shots off Hanson
© PA Photos
Peter Hanson leads the Shanghai Masters on 14-under-par, but Ryder Cup teammate Rory McIlroy is just two shots off the lead as he looks to retain his crown.

Peter Hanson has taken the lead at the Shanghai Masters after two rounds.

Hanson shot a round of 64 to move to 14-under-par, but Ryder Cup teammate and world number one Rory McIlroy kept the Swede within striking distance with a round of 65, putting him just two shots behind the lead.

Robert Karlsson sits third having also shot a 64 to put him on nine-under, while round one leader Jamie Donaldson blew a four-shot lead over the pack with a 74, putting him alongside Justin Rose and Shane Lowry in being six behind the new leader.

Hanson will now play with McIlroy on day three of the tournament, and the 35-year-old is relishing the opportunity.

"I'm really looking forward to it," Hanson said. "Playing with the world number one is always fun - it used to be Tiger, now it's Rory.

"I like to test myself and there's no better way than head-to-head. It's a good way to test your mental abilities and if you can play well it makes it so much nicer.

"I'll be playing 30-40 yards behind him and he's going to be tough to beat, but hopefully I can give him a match."

McIlroy is looking to retain his Shanghai title, having won on the same course last year.

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Barney Corkhill
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