Caroline Masson shot a 65 to take the halfway lead at the Women's British Open at Carnoustie, a shot ahead of the rest on 11-under-par.

German Masson was in the final grouping of the day, and sliced her way up the leaderboard without dropping a shot en route to taking a surprise lead.

"This is absolutely awesome," claimed a clearly shocked Masson. "It is quite unbelievable. I didn't expect to lead but it has been two great days. I love links golf, but I had never played Carnoustie before, but I had seen it on TV."

Masson, who is coached by Martin Kaymer's coach Gunther Kessler, finished one shot ahead of Lee Meena, who held the lead after day one, and Park Inbee, who hit a sparkling 64.

Defending champion Yani Tseng remains in contention after shooting a 66 to move to seven-under.

"I went out feeling very confident and comfortable," said the last year's winner when the tournament was held at Royal Birkdale.

"But I'm hoping there is going to be lots of wind and rain at the weekend. That's what we expect at a British Open."

Eurosport