Golf: Campbell just off pace in Ohio

AKRON, Ohio - Australia's Adam Scott, hungry for his first victory this year after several close calls, charged into a two-shot lead in the opening round of the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational this morning (NZ time).

The world number six rattled up nine birdies and two bogeys on his way to a sparkling seven-under-par 63 on the undulating South Course at Firestone Country Club.

New Zealander Michael Campbell has a share of fourth place after shooting a three-under-par 67.

American Jason Gore was alone in second place after shooting a 65, with compatriot Lucas Glover a further stroke behind.

Four-times champion Tiger Woods birdied two of the last three holes for a 67 to lie joint fourth with Campbell, Britons Luke Donald and David Howell, and Americans Davis Love III and David Toms.

After a poor tee shot cost Scott a stroke at the par-four 10th, his first hole of the day, he delivered a superb display of driving and approach play to set up several short birdie putts.

"I hit a lot of good iron shots and really took the pressure off my putting by hitting them so close," the 26-year-old told reporters after tapping in a one-foot birdie putt on his final hole.

"I drove the ball really well today, pretty long and straight, and had a lot wedges.

"It was a very cruisey kind of round and the birdies just kept flowing. It's got to be right up there with my best rounds of the year."

Tipped by many as a future world number one after winning the 2004 Players Championship aged 24, Scott is yet to triumph this season despite six top-four finishes on the PGA Tour.

"I feel like I've played well enough the whole year to get a win, I just haven't played four days in a row well enough yet," said the Australian, who birdied nine of his last 12 holes.

"But I'm off to a good start so I've got to keep focused and keep the intensity up for the week. It would be nice to get a World Golf Championship title."

Woods, bidding for his fourth successive PGA Tour title after winning his 12th major at the PGA Championship on Sunday, was delighted with his strong finish.

"I didn't make a very good start but managed to turn it around," the world number one said. "I felt I played pretty good on the back nine and I'm only four shots off the lead."

Seventy-eight players, including 47 of the world's top 50, are playing in the limited-field event.

- REUTERS