Retief Goosen was the early front-runner at Firestone Country Club today as the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational got under way in Akron, Ohio.

The South African covered the front nine of the 7,400-yard, par-70 South Course in a three-under-par 32, and had carded the fourth and fifth birdies of his opening round at the 10th and 11th holes to lead the morning starters in the 81-man field by a stroke at five under, having played 13 holes on a warm and sunny morning.

Goosen's compatriot Tim Clark was at four under, starting from the 10th tee, having made the turn with a three birdie, one bogey 33 and then birdying the first and second holes.

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