US Women's Open: Charley Hull two shots off lead after first day

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Charley Hull finished sixth in the Volunteers of America Classic on Sunday

England's Charley Hull is two shots off the lead after the opening round of the US Women's Open in Houston.

Hull, 24, made four birdies and two bogeys on the Jackrabbit course in a two-under 69 to share fifth along with Women's Open champion Sophia Popov.

American Amy Olson leads by one shot after a 67 on the Cypress Creek course.

With the tournament being staged in December for the first time, concerns over daylight mean the first two rounds are being played over two courses.

The 2019 Women's British Open champion Hinako Shibuno is in a three-way tie for second while world number one Ko Jin-young is on two over alongside American world number three Nelly Korda.

However, it was a disappointing first day for Hull's compatriot Georgia Hall after the world number 38 made six bogeys and two double bogeys on her way to a 10-over 81.

The tournament was scheduled to take place in June but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Both courses have been set up as par 71s for the 156-player field, who have a $1m winners' cheque (around 拢744,000) as well as the most prestigious title in women's golf to aim for.