Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick played a seven-under 65 to move one shot off the 16-under lead in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, their first pairing in a PGA event since their opening-round 64 left them six shots behind overnight leaders Smalley and Springer.

The siblings, who took a break from competing together last year to focus on individual play, capitalized on a 6-hole stretch of birdies and an eagle to surge up the leaderboard, mirroring their successful seasons: Matt, ranked third after two PGA Tour wins, and Alex, who claimed his first career title on the DP World Tour, combined their strengths to outduel the American pair.

The Fitzpatricks’ family pairing has proven effective, with Alex noting the benefit of playing with his brother despite limited time spent together. Their rise to the top of the Zurich Classic’s second round underscores the growing impact of high-profile family teams in the sport, adding another layer of intrigue to the four-round tournament at TPC Louisiana.