Robertson returns to lead by one

Briton Dean Robertson celebrated his return to the European Tour after four months of illness by equalling the course record of 65 to hold a one-stroke lead early in the Spanish Open on Friday.

The 29-year-old Scot picked up a stomach virus during the World Cup last November in Malaysia, where he teamed up with European number one Colin Montgomerie, and has been unable to play until this week.

But he showed he was back to full fitness with an eagle and eight birdies, only denying himself an even bigger lead with a bogey just before the turn and two more as he closed his round.

It left last year's Italian Open winner a stroke better than Australian Nick O'Hern and Spain's Juan Quiros, with defending champion Jarmo Sandelin of Sweden two further shots back.

"I was very nervous at the first couple of holes," admitted Robertson after his seven-under round, "because I just didn't know what to expect after such a long time off.

"Now I'm absolutely elated because I had no expectations whatsoever.

"I picked up a virus which kept giving me stomach cramps and nausea. I went to Perth at the start of this year but I only managed nine holes in practice before having to take to my bed again.

"But I've come back this week with 10 new clubs in the bag, new ball, new shoes, new hat, new clothes - and I'm feeling brand-new.

"It was jumping right in at the deep end today but I'm getting the buzz again and this is a nice wee tonic.

"I was striking the ball as well as when I won last year."

Double US Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal, who trailed Robertson by four, was the first to congratulate the Scot. "Seven-under-par here is a helluva score anyway but for Dean to do it after being ill for so long, is a great achievement."

Sergio Garcia, who turned pro at this event last year, is one behind Olazabal after recovering with three birdies in his last five holes for a 70.

Montgomerie, who has added this event to his schedule to try to find his putting touch, was an afternoon starter, along with the Scot's vanquisher at Sunningdale in the Seve Ballesteros Trophy - the same Severiano Ballesteros.

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