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Saturday, Jun 16, 2007
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Dougherty in the lead

Briton Nick Dougherty and Argentine Angel Cabrera were the early leaders in Thursday's first round at the US Open at the Oakmont Country Club in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. But, the 25-year-old from Liverpool finished the day on a two-under 68 to lead by a shot from Cabrera and by two shots from Spaniard Jose Maria Olazabel and hard-hitting American Bubba Watson.

Tiger Woods, who has won 12 majors, including two US Opens, said he was pleased with his opening round of 71 to finish one above par for tied fifth with 15 others.

The round of the day, however, belonged to Phil Mickelson, who showed true guts and character for his round of four over 74. The left-handed player was clearly struggling with a wrist injury throughout his battling round, but persisted. Meanwhile, Spanish hopeful Sergio Garcia is in danger of continuing were he left off during last year's US Open: missing the cut.

Tough day for Jeev

Jeev Milkha Singh had to settle for a card of five-over 75 to be tied 77th after the opening round.

The Indian had a birdie as against six bogeys in his round.

The Chandigarh golfer is currently seven shots behind the leader and the cut is applied at top-60 and ties or 10 off the lead. Jeev has made the cut at both his previous US Open appearances in 2002 and 2006.

Defending champion Geoff Ogilvy played with Woods and both shot 71, as did Vijay Singh, Justin Rose and 12 others.

South African Ernie Els, winner of the last US Open held at Oakmont in 1994, posted a three-over 73. Phil Mickelson shot 74. — Agencies

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