FRENCH duo Christian Cevaer and Jean Van de Velde and England's Anthony Wall led the early starters in the opening round of the Italian Open Golf Championship in Sardinia.
Cevaer is one of those battling to retain their cards in the final counting event of the season and currently occupies the final spot at 115th on the European Order of Merit.
Starting on the back nine, three birdies in his first nine holes took him out in 34, while Van de Velde and Wall had both picked up three shots in their opening six holes.
Defending champion Ian Poulter was among a group one shot back on two under that also included Essex's Robert Coles.
Coles is 129th on the money list despite a sixth place last week and needs another good performance to keep his playing privileges for next season.
Hereford's David Park and Jeremy Robinson of Evesham were among the later starters.
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