Scotland&aposs Lloyd Saltman hit a superb 64 on Thursday to lead the field at the end of the first day at the Madeira Islands Open. The 27-year-old performed brilliantly, shooting eight under par in swirling conditions at the Clube de Golf do Santo da Serra to hold a two-shot lead at the close of play. Saltman started excellently, hitting birdies on five of the first nine holes, shooting another at the 11th before recovering from a bogey at the 12th to notch a further three birdies and cap off a wonderful first round. England&aposs Richard Bland produced a similarly impressive display, firing seven birdies on his way to a six-under score of 66, which leaves him well positioned in second place. Chile&aposs Mark Tullo is a shot further behind on five under, with Scotland&aposs Craig Lee and Sweden&aposs Joakim Lagergren both tied with Tullo for third place. Englishman Ross McGowan is sixth on four under, while Swedish player Jarmo Sandelin and Germany&aposs Max Glauert are both in contention, tied for seventh with both players five shots off the lead. Saltman has never a tournament since deciding to turn professional in 2007. Matthew Zions is the best-placed Australian on one under in a share of 24th spot.
Author: Omnisport