Rose left in dreamland

Report: Rose flowers at Augusta

Justin Rose admitted he could not believe how well he had done after firing a 67 to take the early lead.

"It's a dream start. To birdie the first two gets you into the tournament from the word go and makes your day much, much easier," he said.

"From the first tee shot I felt comfortable. This is a magical place and it's inspirational.

"I've been hitting it really well lately, but not necessarily getting good scores. Nice it came today."

Darren Clarke, three shots off Rose's pace, was another British player well pleased with life at Augusta.

Sensible golf

"I played very nicely all day," said Clarke, who led by three at the same point last year after the first day was completely washed out.

"I made very few mistakes and played away from nearly all the flagsticks.

"My putter was cold (he twice three-putted), but I am very pleased with the way I hit it. For me it was a very sensible round of golf."

Sandy Lyle, however, was less happy with his day at Augusta, despite carding a very creditable 72.

The 1988 champion was unhappy at being asked to play in the opening threeball for the second year in succession.

I don't mind going off first but I am not ready for this yet Sandy Lyle

"I saw the draw and thought it was the starting list from 2003," the 46-year-old Scot said. "I couldn't believe it.

"I am not going to argue, there is nothing I can do about it.

"I look at it as a plus, it makes me look like Tiger Woods knocking the ball 50 yards past my partners.

"I don't mind going off first but I am not ready for this yet."