In-form Kerr eyes chance at Kraft Nabisco

Rancho Mirage, California :  Twelve months after letting a major victory get away from her at the Kraft Nabisco Championship, American Cristie Kerr took significant steps on Friday to make amends at the same event.

Kerr fired a sparkling five-under-par 67 in difficult US Open-style conditions at Mission Hills to lie just one stroke off the lead after the second round.

Helped by an eagle three at the 11th hole and a superb display of ball-striking all day, the 32 year old posted a six-under total of 138 and is perfectly placed to push on for her second major title.

"I played really, really well today," Kerr told reporters after ending the round in a three-way tie for second place.

"It was great mentally and I hit the ball as solid as I think I've ever hit it. I hit the ball really far today.

"If you're shooting in the sixties, whether it's 61 or 69 in a major championship on a course this difficult ... you're doing a lot of things well."