Fernandez-Castano takes three-shot lead in Singapore, reduced to 54 holes

Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano of Spain shot a 10-under 61 Saturda to take a three-shot lead after the second round of the rain-delayed Barclays Singapore Open. The $6 million event is co-sanctioned by the European Tour and Asian Tour.

Fernandez-Castano had nine birdies and one eagle to lead James Morrison of England and Edoardo Molinari of Italy, who both had 68s and were tied at 12 under.

Phil Mickelson shot 67 and was 4 under. He had a double bogey on the 18th hole -- where he twice landed in water traps -- to keep from advancing higher up the leaderboard.

“I hit a wedge shot and it spun back 90 feet in the water,” Mickelson said. “That was a little frustrating.”

Ernie Els shot a 66 and was at 4 under while Graeme McDowell’s 71 put him at 3 under and just inside the cut mark.

Play was suspended just as the third round began at about noon local time because of the threat of lightning. The rain continued throughout the afternoon meaning no more play was possible, and officials shortened the tournament to three rounds.

The 31-year-old Fernandez-Castano was at 15-under 127 through two rounds.

“I’m thrilled. You don’t shoot 10 under very often,” said Fernandez-Castano, who has won four European Tour titles. “It’s a shame that the tournament has to be reduced to 54 holes. It’s good for me to be leading after 36, but everyone would rather be playing 72 holes.”

The second round was completed early Saturday because rain delayed play for nearly three hours Friday.

Molinari said Fernandez-Castano is the favorite to win the tournament.

“All the pressure is now on Gonzalo,” Molinari said. “All of a sudden he has only one round to play.”