Sam Horsfield holds a one-shot lead at the halfway mark in the Celtic Classic as the Englishman eyes a second European Tour title this month.

Horsfield claimed his first victory at the Hero Open a fortnight ago and was back at the top of the leaderboard again at The Celtic Manor Resort on Friday.

A seven-under second round of 64 took Horsfield to 11 under, a stroke ahead of overnight leader Thomas Pieters.

Horsfield finished with an eagle three to hit the front, responding brilliantly to the blow of triple-bogey six after finding the bunker at the 17th.

There were nine birdies for Horsfield – including four in a row around the turn – and a bogey at the second to ensure the 24-year-old will start the weekend with a slender advantage.

The world number 133 is relishing the challenge, telling the European Tour website: "I've been in contention before, and to get it done and get it over the line.

"I've been there a few weeks ago and I know what the feelings are like. I'm really looking forward to it."

Belgian Pieters, who recently became a father, signed for a three-under 68, a third bogey of his round at 18 costing him a share of the lead.

English duo Callum Shinkwin and Andrew Johnston are a further shot back in third place along with Pieters' compatriot Thomas Detry.

Detry is bogey-free through the first half of the tournament, while the charismatic Johnston was four over through five holes after a triple-bogey seven at the first, but finished with a flourish to card a superb five-under 66.