Dustin Johnson has admitted that it was imperative for him to enjoy a fast start to The Open following his first-round 65 to lead the way after day one at St Andrews.
The 31-year-old flashed his title credentials with a seven-under-par showing on Thursday to hold a one-stroke lead over fellow American Robert Streb in second.
Friday's session is expected to be rife with heavy rain, with weekend forecasts similarly ominous, and Johnson acknowledges that a fast and furious start could prove decisive to his chances of a first Major.
"Everybody knows the weather Friday and Saturday is going to be very difficult," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.
"So today I thought was very important to get off to a good start and try to make as many birdies as you can."
Johnson's playing partner was Jordan Spieth - the pre-tournament favourite and the man to whom he gifted last month's US Open - as the youngster goes in search of a third successive Major.
Shane Callaghan
