Consistent Paisley can continue his love affair with Italy

Rocco Forte Open
Sky Sports 4, 10.30am Friday

Two 200-1 rags led after the first round of the inaugural Rocco Forte Open – Sebastian Soderberg and Michael Hoey each fired a ten-under-par 61 at a windless Verdura Golf Club.

Without any breeze to defend the seaside track, the competitors made mincemeat of it, and Alvaro Quiros canned a hole-in-one on his way to a round of 63 in the Sicily sunshine.

Chinese raider Haotong Li is favourite after opening with a 64, while local hero Matteo Manassero made a solid start with a 67.

Chris Paisley performed well in a 66 and the sweet-swinging Northumbrian can be fancied to win his second-round threeball.

Paisley, who finished tied for third in last year’s Italian Open, has made nine cuts in a row and can see off playing partners Gary Stal and Matthieu Pavon in the 12.55pm contest.

Recommendation
C Paisley to win threeball
1pt 6-4 Sky Bet