2011 British Open‎

(Reuters) Ignoring 35-mph gusts, the strongest winds of the week at Royal St George's, and squally showers, Mickelson picked up an early birdie at the second.

Mickelson, a four-times major winner, picked up another stroke at the sixth before joining Clarke on five-under by coaxing in a 20-foot putt for an eagle three at the seventh.

Mickelson tied his personal-record for a nine-hole score at a major by scoring an even 30 through the first nine holes. For more 2011 British Open news and results, stay with this StoryStream, visit SB Nation's golf hub, and check out our golf blog, Waggle Room. For full 2011 British Open scores, visitthe official Open Championship leaderboard.

36: Johnson has short putt to remain -4. Really a disappointment for Mickelson as Clarke hits his par putt. 11:33: Mickelson hits a poor approach to 13 and goes not hit the green. Clarke's bunker shot does not appear to a tough one. 11:31: Johnson safely on No. 11, a 253-yard, par 3. Clarke takes 4-iron and hits short and watches is shot roll into the bunker. 11:26: On No. 13, Mickelson's splits the fairway. 11:25: Clarke rims out his birdie putt to remain at -7 and two stroke lead on Mickelson. Johnson's birdie attempt at No. 10 is perfect. 11:24: We should not forget Dustin Johnson who is playing with Clarke. He has a makeable birdie putt to get to -4. 11:20: Clarke's approach at No. 10 is excellent. He's about 12 feet from another birdie. Just a great golf shot. 11:14: Clarke's tee shot on No. 10 hops into the left-hand rough. 11:07: Clarke's long birdie putt comes about 3-4 feet short. Mickelson on No. 11 comes up wide on his birdie putt and then blows his par putt. 11:03: Clarke's approach on No. 9 hops over the bunker and onto the green. 11:01: Clarke's tee shot on 9 puts him a little in trouble but the hole is only 412 yards.

10:59: Mickelson's birdie try on No. 10 from 19-feet drops and he's at -6 and off by a stroke.

10:55: Mickelson on No. 10 throws his approach to within 20 feet. 10:51: Clarke from 180 yards out on No. 8 hits another beauty onto the green. 10:50: Clarke (-7) and Mickelson (-5) are battling but lurking are Dustin Johnson (-30, Thomas Bjorn (-2) and Rickie Fowler (-2).

Leader Darren Clarke (-7) is heading there now.

10:43: Mickelson's settles for par on No. 9 and shoots a -5, 30 for the front nine. He now trails Clarke by 2.