Paul Dunne and Graeme McDowell the best of the Irish; Rory McIlroy struggles at Irish Open

Paul Dunne has joined Graeme McDowell as the best of the Irish so far on day one of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at Portstewart.

He is on five-under par after 14 holes while McDowell finished his opening round with a 67.

Shane Lowry and Padraig Harrington are both a shot further back on four-under after rounds of 68, while Gary Hurley and Michael Hoey are both on three-under.

However, Rory McIlroy is really struggling for form as he remains level for the day after 14 holes.

World number 542 Daniel Im is the new leader on eight-under. The American has one hole left to play.