A disastrous three-over-par eight at St Andrews’ fifth hole left Eddie Pepperell well down the field after the first round yesterday.

The Frilford Heath member, who has had four top-five finishes in his last five tournaments, shot a 75 over the famous old links to stand 11 shots off the pace.

The 23-year-old from Abingdon, who is trying to consolidate his 55th spot in the European PGA Tour money list, is in 135th place, despite birdieing the last hole.

The tournament is played over three courses – Carnoustie and Kingsbarns are the others – with the cut being made before the final round which will be played at St Andrews.

  • Latest Sport news

So Pepperell has two rounds in which two move up the field.

Leading the way is former Ryder Cup player Oliver Wilson, who had an eight-under-par 64 at Carnoustie. He is one shot clear of Frenchman Raphael Jacquelin.

World No 1 Rory McIlroy had a 73 at Carnoustie.

  • Do you want alerts delivered straight to your phone via our WhatsApp service? Text NEWS or SPORT or NEWS AND SPORT, depending on which services you want, and your full name to 07767 417704. Save our number into your phone’s contacts as Oxford Mail WhatsApp and ensure you have WhatsApp installed.