SWINDON’S David Howell recorded a round of six-under on day two of the Open de Espana, ensuring he made the cut for the rest of the competition.

Howell shot level par on the opening day of the tournament after making a turbulent start on the front nine, which saw him record three bogeys.

But a quick recovery ensured the 42-year-old remained in contention heading into the second round, and he wasted little time in making up for lost ground.

The former Ryder Cup winner hit four birdies in the opening five holes, launching himself into the top half of the field.

Playing the back nine first, Howell hit his first bogey on day two on hole 16 before shooting six holes level with par.

A trio of birdies on the fifth, seventh and eighth secured Howell’s status in the competition as he finished day two six under.

Fellow Wiltshire players Jordan Smith and Laurie Canter were poised to miss the cut despite both shooting under par today.

Derry Hill's Smith followed up Thursday's level-par round of 72 with a two under 70 today, with Canter, from the Cumberwell Park club near Bradford on Avon carding a second successive 71 to join him at two under par overall, the cut mark set to fall at around four under.