/ 2 May 1997

Goosen leads first round of Italian Open

FRIDAY, 12.00NOON:

A PUTTING infringement set veteran Argentinian Eduardo Romero back two shots in the Italian Open yesterday offered the first day’s lead to South African Retief Goosen. Goosen ended the first round on six-under par 66, two shots ahead of the Argentinian.

Goosen defied flu to shoot his 66, putting him one point ahead of Welshman Ian Woosnam, with Romero sharing third with seven other players.

Goosen’s round, including an eagle and four birdies, was a record for the Gardagolf club.

SPORTS BRIEFS

AMANDA ON A ROLL

SOUTH African Amanda Coetzer, seeded number one, beat American Kristina Brandi 2-6 6-1 6-3 in the second round of the Croatian Open tennis tournament yesterday.