Woods makes slow start in New Zealand

Tiger Woods shot a one-under-par 70 to finish six shots behind the early leaders after the opening round of the New Zealand Open…

Tiger Woods shot a one-under-par 70 to finish six shots behind the early leaders after the opening round of the New Zealand Open at Paraparaumu Beach.

World number one Woods, playing alongside defending champion David Smail and Australian Peter O'Malley, drove well but struggled with his putting.

O'Malley also carded a 70, and Smail slumped to a two-over 73.

Australia's Scott Gardiner leads after firing a 64 which included six birdies and an eagle at the 18th.

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James McLean, also from Australia, is in second, a shot off the lead with Brett Rumford and Steve Alker a further shot behind.

Jae An, the 13-year-old qualifier, shot a 71 to finish his first round in a senior professional event at level par.