Kim struggles to a 78 in Malaysian Open debut

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KUALA LUMPUR -- Korean teenager Noh Seung-yul fired a stunning 10-under-par 62 to snatch the first round lead at the Maybank Malaysian Open on Thursday.

The highly talented 17-year-old, the Asian Tour's rookie of the year last season, was in top form at Saujana Golf and Country Club's Palm course, sinking an eagle and nine birdies to lead by one stroke from playing partner Alexander Noren of Sweden.

Chinese star Liang Wen-chong, the 2007 Asian No. 1, carded a 65 to lie in tied third place alongside Frenchman Jean-Francois Lucquin, who was runner-up here two years ago.

Anthony Kim struggled on the greens in his Maybank Malaysian Open debut and signed for a 78 while two-time champion Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand carded a 69 to lie seven strokes off the pace..

"It was a very bad day at the office but, you know what, my ballstriking was as good as it has been for the last couple of months," Kim said. "Obviously I putted like I couldn't see, which was unfortunate but we'll get them tomorrow."