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Westwood "very pleased" with US Open start

13/06/2008

England's Lee Westwood has declared himself "very pleased" with his one-under-par round on the first day of the US Open at Torrey Pines.

Joining fellow European Tour golfers Robert Karlsson of Sweden and South Africa's Ernie Els on 70, Westwood is just two shots behind the leading pair of Justin Hicks and Kevin Streelman.

And the 35-year-old, from Worsop in Nottinghamshire, believes he has the ability to use his promising opening to the tournament to mount a serious challenge at the second major of the 2008 season.

"I'm pleased with that, very pleased. It is always good to get off to a good start," Westwood said.

"I always feel like I should have a chance at the US Open because I drive the ball well generally and this course in particular has grown on me as the week has gone on.

"There is definitely a way to play this golf course and hopefully I might just have found that way and hopefully I can keep that going for the next three days and have a chance on Sunday afternoon."

Westwood said he would go back to the driving range to work on the finer points of his game, especially drawing and fading shots with his long-distance clubs.

But he added: "I'm happy with where I am."