Golf: Campbell the best of the Kiwis at St Andrews

Masterton amateur Ben Campbell was the best of the Kiwis as the New Zealand contingent got off to a disappointing start at the St Andrews Links Trophy in Scotland overnight (NZT).

Campbell, the New Zealand No 2, carded a one over par 72 in round one at the New Course to be in a share of 19th place.

He was seven shots back from leader Daan Huizing of the Netherlands, who opened with a six under par 65 to lead by four shots.

The other Kiwis in the field had forgettable rounds at the home of golf.

Southland No 1 Vaughan McCall, who finished tied 14th last week at the Scottish Open stroke play championship at Kilmarnock, carded an eight over par 79 to be tied 121st.

Takaka golfer Blair Riordan was the next best of the Kiwis after he fired a six over par 77 to be tied 101st, while Daniel Pearce (78) and Mathew Perry (78) were both tied 111th.

The Kiwis will need impressive round two scores to make the cut at the prestigious amateur event.

The five New Zealand amateurs playing in Scotland are looking for good performances to press their claims for the New Zealand team to contest the Eisenhower World Team's Championship in Turkey in September.