Danny Willett held a two shot lead on Thursday (19th May) after the first round of the Irish Open.

A grey sky greeted the players on the opening day of the Irish Open.

Heavy rain meant play was slow in the morning, but the sun made a rare and welcome appearance at the K club as Darren Clarke made his way onto the 9th green.

A birdie here for the Ryder Cup captain, although dropped shots were more common in a round of one-over 73.

Irishman Shane Lowry is no stranger to these conditions. The world number 35 ended the day in a tie for 15th after a round of one-under.

Two behind Soren Kjeldsen and Martin Kaymer.

The two time Major champion Kaymer firing his irons nicely.

But all eyes have been on Rory McIlroy this week - and the star attraction did not disappoint his fans.

Some wonderful approach work as he picked up six birdies and one bogey to end the day in second, five-under.

But out ahead is Danny Willett.

The Masters champion is in the form of his life, and in his first appearance on the European Tour since donning the green jacket turned it on.

He holed some monster putts in a round of 65 that left him two shots clear at the close of play.