SYDNEY — Unheralded James Nitties played his last nine holes in 29 to snatch a one-stroke lead halfway through the Australian Open and compatriot Adam Scott matched that 7-under 65 on Friday to surge into contention for his second national title.

Nitties was at 9-under-par 135 overall, one ahead of New Zealand’s Ryan Fox, who has carded 68-68.

Nitties, ranked 732 in the world, said he’s struggled to keep his professional career alive.

“I’ve been everywhere. It’s been a pretty rough last three years,” Nitties said. “My game hasn’t really changed much but you’re staying in hotels which have cockroaches running around.”

Scott was two shots back in a tie for fourth place at 6 under, having rallied impressively.