Open-Dougherty keeps lead as conditions toughen

OAKMONT, Pennsylvania, June 15 (Reuters) Sunshine and lively breezes firmed up the treacherous Oakmont greens today, making par a lofty goal in a second round that could end a long streak of major championship cuts for Phil Mickelson.

First-round leader Nick Dougherty's two-under-par mark was safe from the early starters and the Briton remained in control with three successive pars after teeing off at the 10th.

Angel Cabrera of Argentina, after two holes, and American Ben Curtis, after four, were sharing second place on level par.

World number one Tiger Woods and holder Geoff Ogilvy of Australia were among a group at one over after parring their first hole, the 10th.

Conditions toughened as the putting surfaces firmed up, with approach shots bounding through the fast, undulating greens and putts speeding by holes and running off the slippery slopes.

Mickelson, battling with an injured wrist, slumped to a seven-over 77 for an 11-over total of 151.

That put the world number two's streak of 30 consecutive cuts made at majors, the most of any modern-day player, in jeopardy.

Also struggling were Mickelson's playing partners, third-ranked Jim Furyk and number four Adam Scott of Australia.

Furyk shot a 75 for 146 while Scott soared to a 12-over 82 for 158.

''The greens are firmer and a little faster and I think the pins were tougher,'' said 2003 champion Furyk. ''If the breeze keeps up these guys will be in for a tougher time.'' Paul Casey showed a good score was possible.

The 29-year-old Briton fired a brilliant four-under 66, the only sub-par effort among the morning starters, for a three-over tally of 143.

''The goal today was to go out and shoot something level, a couple over maybe,'' said Casey. ''So 66 is way beyond my expectations.

''It's one of the best rounds I've ever shot.'' The top 60 players and tied, and anyone within 10 shots of the lead, qualify for the last two rounds.

Reuters AKD VP0058