Jonathan Yates is one of the most improved players in Ireland this year and he got his reward at Carlow on Sunday when he closed with a course-record equalling 66 to win the prestigious Midlands Scratch Cup.

Liam Ashby has a two-stroke lead over fellow Naas man Jonathan Yates and three shots to spare over Colm Crowley at the halfway stage of the Midlands Senior Scratch Cup at Carlow.