Ian Poulter to use Woburn advantage at British Masters

Ian Poulter is hoping his knowledge of the Woburn course will help him mount a serious challenge for the British Masters title.

Poulter, acting as the tournament's host on his home course, ended the day five shots adrift of the second-round leaders with a one-under-par 70 on Friday.

But the 39-year-old said the five-stroke gap between him and the top of the leaderboard is a well within his sights, given his detailed knowledge of the course.

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"All in all, held the end of the round together nicely. In hindsight, it would be nice not to make mistakes out on the golf course," said Poulter.

"I made a couple yesterday and made a couple today. That's why I'm not a little further up that board.

"I'm on my home course where I know it very well. Time to press Saturday, Sunday. I know what I have to do.

"There's nothing else I can do apart from press now. Five back, but five is very achievable on this course. The way I know the greens."

One shot ahead of Poulter on the leaderboard is Graeme McDowell, after the 36-year-old carded a four-under-par 67, including three birdies across the course's par-three holes.

"My iron play was much sharper today than it was yesterday. With the soft conditions, you can really be aggressive coming into the greens," said McDowell.

"You have to take your shots on. My iron play wasn't very sharp yesterday, but much, much better today. Gave myself some more opportunities."