Geoff Loughrey, the Knockbracken professional, shot a 71 which helped Ireland into the top eight after the first day's play in the 54-holes Johnnie Walker PGA of Europe team championship at Atalaya Park near Marbella yesterday.

Loughrey's 71 included three birdies and an eagle as Ireland finished on one-over-par 145. It wasn't such a good day for the rest of the team as Robert Giles (Warrenpoint) and Damian McGrane (Wexford) both carded 74. Two cards count and since McGrane was last of the three to finish his was the ringed one.

Loughrey's eagle arrived at the long 544-yard fifth hole where he splashed into the cup from a greenside bunker.