McIlroy in strong position

Rory McIlroy’s pursuit of a first UBS Hong Kong Open title at the third attempt got off to a strong start as the Northern Irishman shot a seven-under 63 in today’s opening round to finish one stroke behind leader Mark Brown.

The 21-year-old, sporting blond highlights in his famous curly locks, collected eight birdies against one bogey to move top of the leaderboard in the morning before being dislodged by a blistering Brown, who shot a blemish-free round of 62.