Posted April 12, 2019, 8:49 pm
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Dustin Johnson makes the short shots count to stay near lead

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Dustin Johnson lines up a putt on No. 5 during the second round Friday. He made a slew of key shots down the stretch to stay near the lead. [ANDY NELSON/FOR THE AUGUSTA CHRONICLE]

Dustin Johnson sent a roar through the pines of Augusta National on Friday after pitching in for a birdie at No. 13.

However, the No. 2-ranked golfer in the world is in the hunt for his first Masters Tournament title because of his ability to save pars.

Johnson shot 70 on Friday, leaving him at 6-under and within a stroke of first place.

He fought a wayward driver, hitting only six of 14 fairways, along with some sand trouble, on the opening nine to go out in 1-over 37. He closed with a 3-under back nine.

PHOTOS: Dustin Johnson's Masters Friday

Johnson’s chipping and putter saved the day as he needed a mere 24 putts, six fewer than during his opening round 68.

Johnson thrilled the patrons on No. 17. His second shot put him 51 feet away for a birdie and facing a downhill putt. Johnson left himself an 8-foot knee knocker for par and made the putt.

But the highlight of his round was on No. 13.

PHOTOS: Second round at the Masters

Johnson’s drive on the par-5 landed in the left second cut, leaving him 205 yards to the green. His second shot found Rae’s Creek, forcing a drop along with a penalty stroke.

Johnson, known for his cool and calm ways, promptly hit the ball in the hole from 35 yards out, sending the patrons into a frenzy. He showed little emotion, giving one wave with his left hand holding his wedge, then a second brief wave after taking the ball out of the hole.

The fact that Johnson broke par during the second round of a Masters should come as no surprise. This is his ninth Masters Tournament and the sixth time he shot under par in the second round.

Dustin Johnson makes the short shots count to stay near lead

From AugustaChronicle.com »

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