Rory McIlroy six shots off the lead after first round of BMW Masters

Former world number one Rory McIlroy sits six shots behind leader Luke Guthrie at the BMW Masters following the first round in China.

The Northern Irishman, who carded a one-under 71, looked to be starting strongly when he shot a birdie on the second, but dropped a shot on the fourth before keeping a steady pace.

A further two birdies and two bogeys kept McIlroy six shots off the lead, while Guthrie's form on the back nine ensured his place at the top of the board with a seven-under 65.

His fellow Americans John Daley and Peter Uihlein sit second and third on four-under and three-under respectively, while Graeme McDowell remains five shots off the pace.