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Slow start for Howell in Las Vegas

13/10/2006

David Howell's recent slump in form has shown no sign of relenting in Las Vegas after the English golfer shot an unspectacular 70 on day one of the Frys.com Open.

The Swindon ace was recently overhauled in the race for the European Order of Merit by Paul Casey and he has now turned his attention to the PGA Tour where he has just one top ten finish in 13 events this year.

His hopes of improving this record took a setback, however, after shooting four birdies but also two back-to-back bogeys on the 11th and 12th of the TPC Summerlin to leave himself six shots off the early pace.

American veterans Bob Tway and Steve Flesch lead the way on eight-under-par and Ryder Cup star Howell, who has been struggling with a shoulder injury, has it all to do if he is to close the deficit.

Howell's fellow compatriot Greg Owen enjoyed a more fruitful start to the event as he carded five birdies on the event's second course, TPC Canyons, to register an opening-round score of five-under-par 66 and lead European interest.

World number two Jim Furyk, a three-time winner here in Nevada, is the highest ranked player with Tiger Woods resting and he carded a solid three-under-par 68 on the TPC Canyons course.

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