Rory McIlroy finishes poorly on opening day of Hero Dubai Desert Classic defence

Defending champion Rory McIlroy suffered a poor finish to his opening round in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic (Kamran Jebreili/AP)

Rory McIlroy was left to rue a poor finish to his opening round in the defence of his Hero Dubai Desert Classic title.

Seeking a record fourth victory in the event at Emirates Golf Club, McIlroy made an excellent start with four birdies in the first nine holes and bounced back from a bogey on the first – his 10th hole – with a birdie on the second.