Back on a golf course with which he has a genuine comfort zone, Paul has moved within three of Patrick Sheehan's lead at the Athens Regional Foundation Classic in Georgia, his second consecutive round of 69 reversing a horror run of late.

On a golf course where he won three years ago, Paul made a fast start to the day with three early birdies and made the turn at three under for the day and six under for the tournament.

When he then eagled his 11th hole Paul was very much in the thick of contention. Even though he would drop two shots late in his round he is well placed to continue his progress over the weekend.  

Paul shares third position.