Justin Rose looks to "important" third round at the US Open

Justin Rose has said that it feels "fantastic" to be in contention after two rounds of the US Open.

The 32-year-old played brilliantly for his one-under 69 at Merion on Friday, which leaves him one shot behind joint-leaders Billy Horschel and Phil Mickelson heading into the weekend.

"It's fantastic [to be in contention]," Rose told reporters. "That's the job of the first two rounds, to get yourself in striking distance.

"Tomorrow is an important day to hang around and give yourself a chance on Sunday. You can't get ahead of yourself on the tee shot tomorrow.

"I feel like my preparation that I did after coming here last week, I've got a good game plan, and it's a matter of hitting the right shots."

Luke Donald and Steve Stricker are also in the clubhouse level par for the championship.