Dougherty in Miami's chasing pack

10:47am Friday 21st March 2008

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CHORLEY'S Nick Dougherty shot a two-under-par 70 in the opening round of the WGC-CA Championship in Miami - to stay five shots adrift of overnight leaders Geoff Ogivly and Miguel Jimenez.

Dougherty, 25, fired four birdies and an eagle at Doral Resort's Blue Monster yesterday, but blotted his card with a double bogey 4th, and bogeys on 13 and 18.

The 25-year-old Shaw Hill professional - who is looking to cement his place in the top 10 of Europe's Ryder Cup points table - was satisfied with his opening round.

And Dougherty admits he is feeling right at home in Florida.

"I love this part of the world," he said.

"I come on holiday here twice a year, not to Doral, to South Beach, but it's close enough.

"And I grew up coming here on holiday, because my parents live in Orlando, so it's kind of a home from home for me."

Dougherty tees off for his second round at 12.45pm today.

Defending champion Tiger Woods is one shot behind Australian Ogilvy and Spain's Jimenez.