Germany lead Mission Hills World Cup

A strong start helped Germany gain sole possession of the lead at this year’s Omega Mission Hills World Cup.

It was a gusty day at the Mission Hills Golf Club as Germany, manned by Martin Kaymer and Alex Cejka, started off with three consecutive birdies before firing an eagle at the fourth to aid their seven-under score at the turn.

The pair carded a 10-under 62, placing them all alone at the top of the leaderboard.

“We had a really good start today,” said Kaymer. “That is a very good score because it was windy out there and it was a little bit tougher than last year."

The German team have themselves in great position to vie for their second World Cup in three years.

Meanwhile, defending champions Scotland - represented by Colin Montgomerie and

Alistair Forsyth - finished the opening round with a four-under 68.

A stroke further back is English pairing Ian Poulter and Ross Fisher who finished with a disappointing three-under 69.

Pre-tournament favourites Sweden - led by Robert Karlsson and Henrik Stenson - have themselves tied

for sixth place, only three strokes off the lead, after shooting a seven-under 65.

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