Saltman - chasing the amateur prize.

Top Scottish amateur Lloyd Saltman raised his profile by another few notches.

The 19-year-old from North Berwick raced back up the leaderboard with a four-under-par 68 at the Old Course.

Saltman revealed his confidence has been boosted by encouraging words from former Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance.

"I have spoken to him on the range a few times and it is great when legends like that are talking about you, " admitted the Walker Cup player. That's what you want to hear."

Saltman, who started the day even par, chalked up five birdies and only one bogey, at 14. However, he recovered to pick up a shot at the 16th.

He then got a par at 17 - where he played two provisional balls in the second round - and the 18th.

"That finish was a bit more like it, " he said. I came in four shots better in the last four holes than I was yesterday.

"I took a driver at 17 as well - it was one of my better drives - and pitched to the edge.

"I have been playing well all year and the plan here was to make the cut and enjoy myself. I am certainly doing that."

Walker Cup player Matthew Richardson, the European amateur champion from Middlesex, looks out of the running for the silver medal following a five-over-par 77.