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Westwood shares lead in Qatar

24/01/2008

England's Lee Westwood will take a share of the lead into the second round of the Qatar Masters after carding a five-under-par first round.

Westwood, who leads the early-season Order of Merit standings on the European Tour, shot a bogey-free round – birdying the first, seventh, ninth, 15th and 18th holes.

South Africa's Anton Haig also shot a 67 at the Doha golf and country club to tie with Westwood going into the clubhouse.

A late rally from Spain's Sergio Garcia ensured he is still well in contention as part of a seven-man group two shots off the leaders in joint third.

Included in the pack is Australia's Adam Scott, along with Westwood's fellow Englishman Paul Broadhurst and Ryder Cup star Henrik Stenson of Sweden.

Scotland's Andrew Coltart, Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell and four more Englishmen - Luke Donald, David Howell, Ross McGowan and Sam Walker completed a good day for British golfers as all are in an 11-player group on two under.

And 18-year-old Rory McIlroy, in his first full season as a professional on the European Tour, enjoyed a solid first day as he finished with a one-under-par round of 71 alongside some big names.

Raphael Jacquelin of France and Scotland's Colin Montgomerie both matched the youngster's score, although it was a day to forget for several other top players.

Graeme Storm of England and Paul McGinley of Ireland both carded disappointing five-over-par rounds, while American Scott Verplank finished third from last in the field after a poor six-over-par 78.