Simpson has No 1 Donald in his sights

WEBB Simpson took a step towards top spot on the PGA Tour’s money list by shooting a seven-under-par 63 to share the lead in the first round of the McGladrey Classic at Sea Island.

Simpson only needs to tie for 15th to take over in first place from world No 1 Luke Donald, who is not playing in the tournament.

Simpson fired eight birdies to sit alongside rookie Zack Miller in leading by one shot from fellow Americans Scott McCarron, Billy Horschel and Martin Piller.

“There’s no way I can play this golf tournament without thinking about the money title,” said Simpson. “I’m thinking about it every day. But I’m not over every shot thinking ‘this is for the money title.’ It’s more that I’m just trying my best to get focused on winning the golf tournament.”

Sweden’s Richard Johnson, the leading European, threatened for much of the round but bogeys on the 15th and 17th forced him to settle for an early share of fourth place.

Former Open champion Louis Oosthuizen stood four under par after 12 holes, but Graeme McDowell had an up-and- down round of 70 featuring two double bogeys but a superb eagle on the par-4 fifth.