TURNBERRY, Scotland -- Tom Watson had another magical day at the British Open.

The 59-year-old Watson bounced back from a dismal start, rolling in two impossibly long putts to share the midway lead with little-known American Steve Marino. Watson played the final 10 holes at 4 under for an even-par 70 that might have been even more impressive in the windy conditions than his opening 65.

Marino shot 68 at treacherous Turnberry, and the two will start Saturday in the final group at 5-under 135. Another old-timer, 49-year-old Mark Calcavecchia, will be right with them, one stroke back.

"It's as if the spirits are on my side," said Watson, who rolled in a 75-foot birdie at the 16th and a 45-footer at the final hole to pull even with Marino. "I wouldn't be here if I didn't think I could win.

"I hope the spirits stay on my side."

Tiger Woods was not nearly as unfortunate. The world's top-ranked player limped off with a 4-over 74 and missed the cut (by one stroke) in a major for only the second time in his professional career.

Watson also had his troubles -- at the beginning. He followed a bogey-free Thursday with bogeys on five of the first seven holes -- including four in a row. Just when it seemed he was fading away, the five-time Open champion bounced back with two birdies around the turn.