-- as the Lobster Pot PGA Match Play Championships opened at Riddell's Bay yesterday.

Two other players, Mid Ocean Club's Steven DeCosta and St.George's' Kim Swan (both 69) also broke par on a day of almost perfect weather conditions.

Fifteen of the Island's pros competed on the opening day to decide the pairings for today's first round of match play when they'll be joined by defending champion Dwayne Pearman.

Pearman, head pro at Ocean View, opens his defence against Dwayne Gibson, who along with Castle Harbour's Kevin Benevides yesterday suffered the high round of 85 on what is considered one of Bermuda's least demanding courses.

In other matches today, DeCouto meets Benevides while perennial contender Cornell Bean of Belmont, who carded 73 yesterday, meets Herbie Minors (71).

DeCosta faces Derek Douglas (83) and Swan takes on Phillip Pitcher (80).

Other first round match-ups are: Lloyd James (71) against Keith Smith (78); Eardley Jones (72) against Darren Swan (75); and J.J.Madeiros (76) against N.Minors (71).

The semi-finals are planned for tomorrow and the final on Thursday.

Barry DeCouto