Mickelson piloting towards prized Riviera victory

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

PACIFIC PALISADES, California (Reuters) - West Coast fan Phil Mickelson made a significant step towards a cherished victory at Riviera Country Club by taking command of the Northern Trust Open on Friday.

Helped by his strategy of spending more time at home by flying to and from Los Angeles each day, Mickelson charged four strokes clear with a sizzling 64 in the second round.

"On the West Coast, this is the tournament that's eluded me and I've tried very hard to win," the world number two told reporters after posting a 10-under total of 132.

"I had a good chance last year and let it slip away," Mickelson added, referring to his playoff loss to fellow American Charles Howell III.

"I'm hoping to have a good weekend here, because this tournament means a lot to me. The West Coast means a lot to me."

Asked whether the tradition of the par-71 Riviera layout was a significant factor in his desire to win the tournament, Mickelson replied: "The history of the golf course is one of the things.

"Also, the second Tour event I ever played was here at the L.A. Open. Coming out here and watching and partaking in the event as a teenager makes this a special place in my heart.

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