Players Championship a brutal challenge for Els

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Florida, May 9 (Reuters) - Ernie Els believes conditions at this week's Players Championship have been tougher than the dreadful weather he had to endure to win his third major title at the 2002 British Open.

Six years ago, Els triumphed in a four-way playoff at Muirfield after Tiger Woods had tumbled out of contention with a 10-over-par 81 in driving wind and rain during the third round.

"Those golf courses are built for this (wind)," South African Els told reporters after shooting a one-under-par 71 in Friday's second round at the Tournament Players Club at Sawgrass.

"(On links courses) you can play the ball on the ground and hit all kinds of different shots. Here you've got water hazards all over the place, so you've got to put the ball in the air.

"It's more difficult. The greens are firmer and faster and you've got to just keep not screwing up, basically," he added with a broad grin.

"You've got to just keep kind of playing defence. You've got to be very aggressive in your mindset and then play the safe shot."

World number four Els gathered five birdies, two bogeys and a double-bogey six at the fifth to post a one-under total of 143 in strong, gusting winds on a sun-baked layout at Sawgrass.

"The wind, it's southwest, but it keeps moving around a little bit and then you get a gust every now and again," the 38-year-old said of gusts that peaked at 50 kph.

"With so many water hazards around, you have to almost play safe. And even with the putts, the greens are so fast."

With the late starters at Sawgrass having to contend with strengthening winds, Els ended the day just five strokes behind pacesetting American Kenny Perry.

"If I take out two holes, I'm leading the tournament," Els said, also referring to his triple-bogey at the par-three 17th in the opening round.

"My golf shots were a lot better today so I want to keep working. I think I'm on track. I'm feeling good. I actually feel like I have a chance." (Editing by Martin Petty)