Leona Maguire six behind surprise leader at HSBC World Championship

World number 153 Elizabeth Szokol leads the field on eight-under par after the opening round of the HSBC Women's World Championship in Singapore, with Leona Maguire six shots back after carding a 70.

A bogey on eight was the only blemish for Maguire in what was a steady opening for her at an event where nine of the world's top 10 golfers are in action. Birdies were made on two, seven and 13 to leave the Cavan competitor on two-under and in a share for 14th.

After a bogey at her first hole, the American Szokol bagged seven birdies and an eagle for a 64 and leads by three over the chasing pack, which is led by Yuka Saso on five-under after the Japanese world number 36 shot a flawless 67.

World number two Nelly Korda carded a 68 for a share of third place with five other players, including fellow major winners Patty Tavatanakit, Kim Hyo-joo, Ariya Jutanugarn and Lee Jeong-eun.

Top-ranked Lydia Ko (70) of New Zealand and South Korea's reigning champion Ko Jin-young (72) endured difficult days with the putter at the Sentosa Golf Club and finished in a share of 14th and 36th respectively.

ROUND 1 LEADERBOARD