Xiamen - Overnight leader Lee Jung-min of South Korea struggled to a three-over 75 in second-round play at the $250,000 Hyundai China Ladies Open on Saturday but managed to maintain a one-shot lead ahead of compatriot Sim Hyun-hwa (71).

Through 36 holes at China's fifth national championship in Fujian province, the 18-year-old Seoul native was at three-under 141 in the China LPGA Tour-Korea LPGA Tour co-sponsored event.

Two strokes back were South Koreans Kim Char-young (70), Kim Bo-kyung (74), Lee Jeong-eun (71) and Lee Il-hee (73), while China's Yang Tao Li shot a 71, tied with South Koreans Jang Ji-hae (73), Kim Ha-neul (74), Kim Hye-youn (71) and Ham Young-ae (72) at three strokes off the pace.

"I played worse than yesterday. You cannot shoot a low number every day. So this score is acceptable, especially considering my game today," said leader Lee. "My problem is driving, which is not ideal. But I saved many pars, which is pleasing. Now I am leading. I am happy to be in a position to win on Sunday."

Before her round, Lee, who won the Thailand Open in February and one event on her domestic tour, said she expected such a result and didn't panic. She admitted the cold weather in the early morning affected her performance.

"I didn't think too much about leading. Obviously, we are close. When I get back to the hotel I will consider my strategy. I must face the challenge," said Lee.

China Daily