Dougherty shoots 63, McIlroy 2 back in Switzerland

CRANS-SUR-SIERRE, Switzerland (AP) — Nick Dougherty shot an 8-under 63 Thursday to lead Rory McIlroy by two shots after the first round of the European Masters.

The Englishman had eight birdies in a bogey-free round, while McIlroy had five birdies in his first eight holes. It’s McIlroy’s first tournament since injuring his right wrist three weeks ago.

Martin Kaymer, Lee Sung and Gary Boyd also were two shots behind the leader. Kaymer had seven birdies and just one bogey in his 65.

McIlroy showed no ill effects from the injury he sustained after hitting a tree root during the PGA Championship.

His only blemish was a 5 at the 4th hole after hooking his tee shot into trees. But he recovered with a 12-footer on the next hole, then made a 14-foot, downhill putt for birdie at the 6th.

Second-ranked Lee Westwood and British Open winner Darren Clarke were in a group of six players at 4 under.