Golf: Lydia Ko charges up leaderboard at LPGA Classic

Lydia Ko hits on the 15th tee during the second round of the ShopRite LPGA Classic. Photo / AP

Lydia Ko has charged up the leaderboard with a superb second round at the LPGA Classic in New Jersey.

Starting the day in 52nd place after a first round 71, Ko shot the joint-low round of the day with a 65 to sit in fifth spot heading into the final day of the three-round event.

In a near-flawless round, Ko recorded six birdies and will start the final day three shots back from leader Frida Kinhult of Sweden.

Ko was pleased to recover after some sloppy mistakes in her first round where she carded four bogeys.

"I actually didn't play that bad [on Saturday]. I made a lot of careless mistakes and I had a lot of wedges in hand and I felt like I kind of let the round become very mediocre, so I was a little disappointed.

"But today I was really patient out there and I putted really well. The front nine I wasn't really out of position that much. I made a few crucial up and downs and good par putts on my back nine.

"I had actually one of the best fairway bunker shots with a wedge probably of my life on 12. That set up a nice birdie opportunity, so those are the bonuses.

"Overall I think when I had to make the par putt I was able to make it. For the most parts, holed my birdies as well, so I have to thank the putter."

Ko is hoping to stay composed in the final round as she chases another LPGA victory.

"I've been trying not to get too rattled when I do make a mistake. As much as there are some tougher holes, there are some holes - probably a few more holes this week than any other course - that you get some shorter irons or wedges.

"Being strategic is key and keeping to my own pace, and we'll see what happens."

On the PGA Tour, Danny Lee looks set for a strong finish at the Canadian Open. Lee sits in a share of 19th place following a one-under 69, to sit at four-under for the tournament. Lee had four bogeys in his round but also carded three birdies and an eagle.

American Tony Finau, after a third round 62, and Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy (65) lead at 11-under, two shots ahead of recent winners Justin Thomas and Sam Burns.