NO SURPRISES AT WOODS’ TOP PLAY

1 February 2008 - The first day of the Dubai Desert Classic on the Maljis Golf Course at the Emirates Golf Club has brought no surprises in Tiger Woods dominating the leader board by an outstanding two strokes, taking a birdie at the first hole.

Hereafter, Woods, taking another six birdies, closed the first day off with seven-under 65.

The only threat to Woods was the South African Andrew McLardy, who, with six under through 15 holes, almost overtook Woods for first place. Unfortunately for McLardy, through, a bogey on the last hole for the day put him into a second place tie on 67.

Considering his play for the day, Woods said, "I played pretty well and hit a bunch of good shots out there. I hit the golf ball a lot more clean today and shaped the ball better, so much better than last week when I just made a lot of putts. Couldn't have asked for a better start".

Others to finish with two shots on this the first day include Indian pair Jeev Milka Singh and Jyoti Randhawa, France's Thomas Levet, Germany’s Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland and Scott Hend of Australia, Gary Murphy of Ireland, Simon Dyson of England and McLarty.

We look forward to play resuming today.