Golf: Patrick Reed takes two-stroke lead in Shanghai

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01:15

In the first round of the WGC HSBC Champions in Shanghai, Patrick Reed ended the opening day out on Thursday in front with a two-shot lead thanks to a bogey-free round, as the American had a strong return from his post-Ryder Cup break.

The Masters champion hasn't played since the Ryder Cup and needed something to remind people of his abilities in the blue riband event in China.

The 28-year-old shot 32 on both sides of the course without a bogey, and made a long birdie putt to end the day in the lead at 8-under 64.

Justin Rose of England lines a putt during the first round of the WGC-HSBC Champions golf tournament in Shanghai, China, October 25, 2018. /VCG Photo

The defending champion, Justin Rose carded a consistent 3-under par round of 69. Meanwhile, Englishman Tommy Fleetwood went one better on the 17th, en route to finishing with a 4-under-par round of 68.

Kiradech Aphi-barnrat continued to remain unfazed at the prospect of being the first Thai to play on the PGA Tour by shooting a 4-under par 68 in the first round. As per the leader board after the first round, Reed has got a two-shot lead over Xander Schauffele of the USA.

Last year's PGA Tour Rookie of the Year also managed a bogey-free round on his 25th birthday and is tied with Tony Finau Aphibarnrat one-shot off the pace.