EDDIE Pepperell made a positive start to his Open Championship after carding a one-under-par 70.

As one of the early starters at Royal Portrush, it put him in a share of 12th place, although many of the field are yet to begin.

The Abingdon golfer raced into a share of the lead after picking up birdies at the second and fourth holes.

Also read: Eddie Pepperell expects Portrush to deliver 'Open of the century'

He dropped a shot at the ninth, which began an eventful run for the world No 35.

Birdies at the 10th, 12th and 13th were cancelled out by dropped shots on 11, 14 and 17.

His second round begins at 12.42pm on Friday.