McDowell two behind leader Woods

Graeme McDowell finished his round with two birdies

Graeme McDowell is two shots behind leader Tiger Woods after firing a seven-birdie opening five-under-par 67 at the Dubai Desert Classic.

McDowell was out in 33 and despite two bogeys early in his back nine, he finished his round with two birdies.

Rory McIlroy hit an opening 69 but Darren Clarke had to settle for a 74 which included a quadruple bogey.

Gary Murphy (67), Damien McGrane (68) and Peter Lawrie (69) were all under 70 while Paul McGinley fired a 71.

Clarke, who like McDowell started at the 10th, had a nine at the 18th, a hole which was eagled by his playing partner Richard Sterne.

Dungannon man Clarke suffered the quadruple bogey after going twice hitting into water.