MARANA, Arizona, Feb 20 (Reuters) - Ernie Els became the first big name to fall by the wayside when he was crushed 6&5 by American Jonathan Byrd in the first round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship on Wednesday.
The South African world number four bogeyed four of the first nine holes before losing the match on the 13th green, the fifth time he has lost in the tournament's opening round in eight appearances.
Byrd, world-ranked 63rd, reeled off six birdies in a flawless display at Dove Mountain's Gallery Golf Club for a winning start on his debut in the first World Golf Championships (WGC) event of the year.
"I feel good about where my game is and in a week like this you've got all to gain, nothing to lose," a beaming Byrd told reporters.
"I went out there and played some really good golf. I barely got in the field so I was excited about being here, and excited about having a good match with Ernie. It was fun."
Complete article