Scottish raider Wilson heads seven-strong Irish chasing pack at Amateur Open

Early conditions a huge factor as eight of 11 sub-par rounds come in morning wave at The Island

Chasing pack: West of Ireland champion Alan Fahy (Bray) is hot on the tail of Matthew Wilson at The Island. Pic: Golffile | Thos Caffrey)

Scotland’s Matthew Wilson took advantage of the best of the early conditions to open with a three-under 69 for a one-shot lead in the Flogas Irish Men’s Amateur Open at The Island.

Eight of the 11 sub-par rounds were shot in the morning wave, and Wilson, twice a winner in Scotland already this year, took advantage to card five birdies and lead by the minimum from a seven-strong Irish chasing posse.