Graeme McDowell leading against Robert Karlsson and Jbe Kruger in Spain
Graeme McDowell grabbed an early lead in the first round of the Volvo World Match Play Championship, as he surged past Robert Karlsson by one stroke.
The European Tour event is gaining huge attention for the first round results. Ian Poulter, Brandt Snedeker, Paul Lawrie, Sergio Garcia, Justin Rose and Rafael Cabrera-Bello are the proud winners after the round on Thursday.
McDowell is in the Pool Larson group, faced Karlsson on the 18 holes and defeated him. McDowell displayed an impressive game at the Finca Cortesin, Casares in Andalucía, Spain.
He teed off the event early in the morning and faced problems while scoring on the 2nd and 3rd hole. He conceded both the holes and gave benefit to his opponent.
Later, he made all-out efforts and carded three straight birdies on the 9th, 10th and 11th hole. His scores reached the top and he then added two more birdies in order to maintain the domination.
He shot five birdies, which helped him condolidate his position on the leaderboard. He was happy to grab a victory in the first round of the mega event.
"I'm very happy with that. It really gets your attention.” McDowell said. “We don't get the chance to play it very often, but it's a lot of fun when the other guy plays solid and you have to play better to beat him".
On the other hand, Karlsson has also played an amazing game. He started the round with a par, earn two birdies benefit on the conceded holes.
He played an average game till the 13th hole and shot consecutive pars. He managed to score two birdies on the 14th and 15th hole and finished the round by three more pars.
He was just one stroke behind the winner and lost the chance to dominate the group on Thursday. Now, Karlsson has to face Jbe Kruger, who is also an appealing player and can defeat him.
In orde to move ahead, Karlsson has to make calculated strokes, so that he can compete well for the title.
McDowell is currently leading. He will also face Kruger on Friday and a tough battle is expected.
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