Johnson in contention in Arizona

Richard Johnson put himself into contention at the Frys.com Open in Scottsdale after firing a six-under-par 64 to lie within one stroke of the lead after the opening round.

The 36-year-old from Cardiff has endured a disappointing season on the US PGA Tour but made a sizzling start at Grayhawk Golf Club with four birdies on his first six holes.

The Welshman finished with eight birdies and two bogeys and is just one shot behind joint leaders John Mallinger and Doug LaBelle II.

Johnson has made the cut in only eight of his 26 events on the PGA Tour this season with his best finish being a tie for 27th at the Turning Stone Resort Championship earlier this month.

Mallinger and LaBelle both carded eight birdies and a bogey to set the pace after the first round.

Mathias Gronberg of Sweden, Chris Stroud and JJ Henry are part of a six-way tie for fourth on five under while defending champion Mike Weir is tied with five other players for 10th on four under after carding a 66.