Scotland’s Derek Oliver claimed a further two victories today to preserve his lead in Section Two of the men's event at the World Bowls Singles Champion of Champions in Sydney ©World Bowls

Scotland’s Derek Oliver claimed a further two victories today to preserve his lead in Section Two of the men's event at the World Bowls Singles Champion of Champions in Sydney.

The 33-year-old remains top of the standings with a total of 27 points and 55 shots after another impressive performance at the Australian city's St Johns Park Bowling Club.

Oliver began with a 9-5, 11-3 win over Norfolk Island’s Phil Jones and followed it with an 8-8, 10-4 victory over Zambia’s Matthew Mercer.

His closest challenger is Ireland’s Barry Kane, who has a total of 24 points and 73 shots.

Kane beat Japan’s Akira Okuda - 18-2, 14-2 - and home favourite Aaron Teys - 8-7, 10-6 - today.

Wales' David Kingdon is still the bowler setting the standard in Section One after moving onto 24 points and 70 shots.

Kingdon experienced mixed fortunes today, having firstly defeated Namibia’s Cabous Olivier 7-5, 18-2 and then lost 2-10, 9-6, 0-5 to Thailand’s Uthen Ontong.

Qualifying round action continued in Sydney today ©World Bowls
Qualifying round action continued in Sydney today ©World Bowls

South Africa’s Nici Neal is the new leader in Section One of the women’s event with 21 points and 25 shots.

Today’s action saw Neal overcome the Isle of Man’s Bernice McGreal 8-5, 10-5 before beating Japan’s Yukie Kato 11-8, 15-2.

Laura Daniels of Wales remains the pacesetter in Section Two with 21 points and 64 shots.

Qualifying rounds are taking place over the first five days of competition and are due to conclude tomorrow.

The semi-finals are scheduled to be held on Saturday (November 4), with the finals on Sunday (November 5).

Australia's Scott Thulborn and Natasha Scott were the winners of last year's respective men's and women's events in Brisbane.