Ireland's Padraig Harrington started the Italian Open in disappointing fashion today as he resumed his bid to overtake Retief Goosen at the top of the Volvo European Order of Merit. A top four finish in Rome on Sunday would see the Dubliner overhaul last year's winner Goosen at the top of the money list with the pair separated by just under £34,000 going into the final two events.
The South African is playing in the US Tour championship this week but Harrington failed to capitalise on his absence as he was out-played by playing partner Paul Lawrie in the first round at Olgiata Golf Club and found himself ten shots off the overnight lead. Harrington struggled with his putting all morning as he hit two bogeys on his way to a score of one-under, and afterwards admitted that he was feeling the pressure. He said: "I missed a few chances early on and let it get to me. My expectations were high and I made it hard on myself."
Lawrie and Sweden's Patrik Sjoland equalled the 34-year-old course record with rounds of six under par 66, but were quickly overtaken by Denmark's Anders Hansen and England's Miles Tunnicliff who carded opening rounds of 64. England's Ian Poulter then returned a faultless 61, which included an eagle 3 at the 15th, to take a three shot lead. Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell equalled Harrington's score.
Filed by James Boylan.
