Derkson on target for second win in a row

HOLLAND’S Robert-Jan Derksen, still on a high after his shock win in the Dubai Desert Classic, moved quickly into contention for back-to-back victories in the Madeira Island Open.

Two weeks after holding off defending champion and world number two Ernie Els in Dubai, Derksen carded an opening five-under-par 67 at Santo da Serra to lie one shot off the lead.

Spain's Jesus Maria Arruti set the clubhouse target with a six-under 66, but half the 144-man field were unable to complete their rounds following a three-and-a-half hour delay due to morning thunderstorms.