Shane Lowry struggles as MacIntyre and Bjork shine in Donald's presence

Dropped shots on back nine leave Offaly man off the pace as Ryder Cup qualification race heats up

Shane Lowry tees off on the 13th hole during Day One of the D+D Real Czech Masters at Albatross Golf Resort in Prague. Picture: Octavio Passos/Getty Images

Ryder Cup hopefuls Robert MacIntyre and Alexander Bjork seized their chance to personally impress Europe captain Luke Donald on day one of the D+D Real Czech Masters.

But it was a disappointing day for Shane Lowry, who started strongly with four birdies in his first five holes, only to slump on the back nine with three bogeys to finish on one under overall.