Scott eyes dream pairing with compatriot Norman

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

SOUTHPORT (Reuters) - Adam Scott has set his sights on a third-round charge at the British Open to set up a dream pairing with fellow Australian Greg Norman on the last day.

"Paired with him in an Open at the weekend would be awesome," world number four Scott told reporters after carding a four-over-par 74 in Friday's second round.

"I'll have to play well tomorrow and hopefully I'll catch him on Sunday."

Scott ended a blustery day at Royal Birkdale on four-over 144, four strokes behind early leader Norman, his childhood idol.

A former world number one and twice winner of the British Open, Norman is bidding to become the tournament's oldest champion at the age of 53.

IN CONTENTION

"It's fantastic," Scott said. "He's probably the most experienced player at this point in contention and he certainly knows how to get it done on these types of courses.

"When he was one under today through nine and I was still around that mark, I was trying to get myself up there so I could play with him over the weekend."

Scott was level with 12 holes to play before bogeying the seventh, ninth, 11th and 13th. Although he birdied the par-five 17th, he offset that with another bogey at the last.

"Bit disappointing not to play better," said the 27-year-old. "I struggled with my swing and the putting. I got the better side of the draw weather-wise and didn't take advantage."

Scott, who played nine holes with Norman in practice earlier in the week, was asked if the veteran had given any indication then of the form which has taken him clear of the field.

"Yes," Scott replied. "I know he doesn't play much but when you're as good as he is you know how to get the ball around no matter how you're playing.

"He's obviously playing well and it's easy for him just now. He's still the Australian hero."

(Editing by Tony Jimenez)