Mars Pucay carded a seven-under-par 65 in the second round of the Iskandar Johor Open to close in on leader Himmat Rai.

The 39-year-old from the Philippines, who is aiming for his maiden Asian Tour victory, carded eight birdies against one bogey at the Royal Johor Country Club for a two-day total of 10-under 134.

Pucay is in a share of fifth place and is three shots behind Rai, who held onto top spot after completing his second round yesterday and is on 13-under 131 for the tournament.

The full field head into the third and final round tomorrow after inclement weather forced officials to reduce the event to a 54-hole stroke-play tournament.

Asian Tour honorary member KJ Choi of South Korea and Australia's Darren Beck held onto their tied second positions on 132 while Chang Tse-peng of Chinese Taipei stands fourth on 133.

Pucay said: "My chipping and approach shots really helped with my game. The course was a bit softer after the rain yesterday and it made it easier to attack the green even when my ball was in the rough.

"I have been knocking on the door for so many times so hopefully I can hit my big first. I am hitting the ball and putting well so I feel that I have a huge chance for a crack at the title."

Defending champion Retief Goosen of South Africa admitted he is out of the title race after carding a 70 that leaves him tied 22nd on 139.

Goosen said: "I think I am pretty much out of the tournament and have no chance of winning especially with the way I am playing. I will go out there tomorrow and play my best and try to improve my finish.

"I have been struggling and hitting the ball poorly and not getting myself into position to score. That has cost me this week."