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 On a day that will be best remembered for the worst single round
by Tiger Woods in his storied career, an error-riddled 82, Laird
used a series of precise approach shots to card a second straight
five-under-par 66 at TPC Scottsdale.
Playing in unusually wet conditions more reminiscent of his native
Scotland than the Arizona desert, Laird reeled off four birdies in
five holes from the 13th before missing a six-foot par-saving putt
in semi-darkness at the last.
"The big thing was I drove it well," the three-times winner on the
PGA Tour told reporters after posting a 10-under 132 halfway total.
American Daniel Berger (69) was alone in second place on
eight-under, while another tour rookie Justin Thomas (68) was next
on seven-under.
Woods was in last place on 13-over 155, although 15 players did not
complete the round before darkness, so he may yet avoid propping up
the field. Phil Mickelson also missed the cut as the event lost its
two biggest names.
 Laird, 32, said it was a misconception that he was used to playing
in rain because he grew up in the homeland of golf. He pointed out
that he has lived in the U.S. for 14 years.
"It's always a joke how many times when it rains I get the little
phrase 'just like home'," said the man who now lives only a
five-minute drive from this week’s venue.
"It was a very Scottish day today with the misty drizzle all day. I
remember playing in these conditions, but I really haven't played in
them much (during) my professional career, so I wouldn't say it's a
huge advantage for me anymore.
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"It’s no coincidence that four birdies in five holes came on the
back (nine) when the rain stopped and got a little easier out there
(because) that front nine was brutal."
While Laird shined, Woods was poor in every facet of his game, and
his chipping was particularly woeful.
"I have to continue with the process," said the 39-year-old, who
switched instructors late last year from Sean Foley to Chris Como.
"I have been here before. It wasn't that long ago that I changed my
swing with Sean, and I was Player of the Year only a year ago.
You've got to keep things in perspective, and sometimes it's
difficult to do that."
(Reporting by Andrew Both in Cary, North Carolina. Editing by
Patrick Johnston)
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