SUZHOU, China – Carlota Ciganda of Spain shot a second-round 70 at the China Suzhou Taihu Open on Saturday to take a two-stroke lead into the final round at Suzhou Taihu International Golf Club.

The 22-year-old Ladies European Tour rookie from Pamplona started the day one stroke clear of the field at seven under par, but was caught by early starter Caroline Masson of Germany, who fired a 69, before she had even started her second round.

Playing in wind and fog, Ciganda quickly moved two clear of her rival with birdies on the fourth and fifth holes. She dropped shots at 11 and 12 before recovering with birdies on 16 and 18 to end nine under and two clear of Masson.

Ciganda holds a slim lead over Masson on the Ladies European Tour’s ISPS Handa Order of Merit for 2012 and the first prize cheque of €52,500 could make all the difference, setting up an exciting final round battle between two of the tour’s most talented players.