Caldwell and Hoey fare best in South Africa

Jonathan Caldwell and Michael Hoey have fared best of the Irish competitors on the opening day of the Alfred Dunhill Championship in South Africa today.

The two Ulstermen carded first-round 70s to reach the clubhouse on two under par, five shots adrift of early leader Len Mattiace.

Elsewhere, Damien McGrane finished his round on one under par, Gareth Maybin on level par and Gary Murphy on four over par.

Rory McIlroy, meanwhile, was level par after 12 holes as he continues his quest to finish the season in the top-50 of the rankings.

The Co Down teenager is currently ranked 49th and will qualify for next year's Majors if he maintains that position.

Len Mattiace held the clubhouse lead midway through the first day after carding a seven-under-par 65. The American was one stroke ahead of English duo Lee Westwood and Robert Rock, with Rafael Cabrera Bello and Michael Jonzon a further shot back still out on the course.