JEFF Mathews, a Blackburn-based Geordie, handed in a flawless seven-under-par 65 to take a one shot lead in the first round of the HSBC Manx Classic at Castletown.
A run of four birdies in a row from the fourth hole set him up for an outward half of 33 and he picked up three more on the home stretch, narrowly missing equalling the course record when a putt stayed out on the last green.
Former European Tour player Mathews, 39, also led at the same stage last year and goes into the final round a shot clear of Denton, Manchester, professional Mike Brunton. Pleasington's Ged Furey, a double winner of the title, was in fourth spot on 69.
DETAILS: 1st rd: 65 J Mathews (unatt); 66 M Hollingworth (Denton); 67 D Brunton (Sale); 68 G Furey (Pleasington); Others: 74 S Townend (Wilpshire); 79 S Eaton (Burnley).
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