SYDNEY: Australian Stuart Appleby put aside a mediocre year on the USPGA Tour to grab a share of the lead after the first round of the $1.36 Australian Open here today.

Appleby, who finished 137th on the US moneylist and is languishing at 150 in the world rankings, fired a six-under par round of 66 to share top billing with compatriot Scott Hend. Hend had the better of the morning conditions, shooting eight birdies and two bogeys, while Appleby had to contend with a strengthening afternoon wind in a round lasting almost six hours. Appleby held his ground to also return eight birdies and two bogeys.

Australians James Nitties (67), Stephen Allan (68) and Adam Scott (68) all took advantage of the benign morning conditions, while American two-time major winner John Daly shot a par round of 72. Pre-tournament favourite Australian Geoff Ogilvy struggled to a 73.

Appleby continued his form on from his eighth-placed finish behind Tiger Woods at last month’s Australian Masters in Melbourne. “I started a lot of rounds of golf really excited but all year I wasn’t able to get that final bit of confidence,” Appleby said.