Bernd Wiesberger and Benjamin Hebert produced matching seven under par 64s to share the first round lead in the European Open at the Bernhard Langer-designed Bad Griesbach Golf Resort on Thursday.

They are one shot clear of a group of four -- Graeme Storm, Richard Bland, Richard Green and Darren Fichardt.

German legend Langer is one of a large group only two shots off the lead on five under par.

Austria's Wiesberger and France's Hebert made the most of benign conditions to card seven birdies apiece.

French Open winner Wiesberger had to hold his nerve as he birdied the last to join Hebert already safely in the clubhouse.

"I felt really good coming into this week," said the 29-year-old Wiesberger.

"I played good golf last week and I dragged that into today as well.

"I hit the ball pretty good so few courses wouldn’t suit me right now. It's not often you can say that but I felt in control of my ball flight and yardages. I had a few hiccups on the greens but you can't have it all."

Hebert, 28, put his encouraging start down to local knowledge.

"I've played here two times already on the Challenge Tour and it is a good course. It was in great shape this afternoon and tomorrow (Friday) the greens will be perfect in the morning.

"It does help playing here before. I know the course well. I know where we can be more aggressive and where to play easier. It’s a good advantage."
Source: AFP