Lewis and Cutler struggle on debut in the paid ranks

Welshman Liam Bond was the surprise leader after the first round of the Austrian Open at Atzenbrugg as professional debutants Tom Lewis and Paul Cutler both found the going tough.

Lewis and Cutler were part of the Walker Cup team who beat their American rivals earlier this month before making the decision to leave their amateur days behind them.

For Lewis in particular, the expectations are already sky high, but he endured four bogeys at Diamond Country Club in a two-over 74.

Northern Irishman Cutler fared even worse, managing only one birdie in a round of five-over par that included a double-bogey seven at the seventh.

That Bond is playing on the European Tour at all is a testament to his persistence. The 41-year-old finally came through Qualifying School last year at the 16th attempt and another trip is beckoning.