Calum Hill got the hard part done. Now the Scotsman is looking to free wheel to the finish line at the US Open.

The Kinross exile continued to revel in his major championship debut as he posted a terrific 69 in the second round during a day which saw some of the world’s best depart from Shinnecock Hills.

Hill was heading into the third round in a share of 14th alongside his fellow Scot, Russell Knox, on four-over and the Scot admitted his lofty position had exceeded his expectations. It’s onwards and upwards now, though.

Speaking to the Albuquerque Journal, Hill, a graduate of Western New Mexico University, said: “I got the job done, so now it’s time to chill and have fun. I would love a top-10 finish. If I try my best, and wherever I end up it’s just going to be great now.

“It is neat to see all the guys who have had trouble and to be able to put myself in position for a good finish is beyond something I could’ve hoped for. This is a steppingstone in the right direction to get where I want to be as a golfer. Eventually I want to be on the European Tour or PGA Tour.

“I was just having a good time. I don’t get too nervous. I got some adrenaline. I don’t seem to get that nervous too much, that’s always a plus."

Hill and Knox will carry the saltire over the weekend with Richie Ramsay and amateur, Ryan Lumsden, both missing the cut.