GOLF ROUNDUP

PGA TOUR

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Justin Thomas birdied four of his last five holes for a 6-under 66 and was three strokes behind first-round leader and fellow American Bronson Burgoon at the CIMB Classic on Thursday.

Burgoon’s 63 on the par-72 TPC Kuala Lumpur West Course gave him a one-stroke lead over Austin Cook. Two other Americans, Scott Piercy and Billy Horschel, and Taiwan’s C.T. Pan were another stroke back after 65s.

Thomas was in an eightway tie for sixth, including 2012 champion Nick Watney, Kevin Chappell and Paul Casey.

“You have to play well here every day or at least get a round like today … it’s what could end up winning me this golf tournament,” Thomas said.

“Not having my best stuff and getting around here in 6-under is huge. I just didn’t take advantage of a couple opportunities and let a couple go, but kind of found something there those last five holes and was able to at least make a good round.”

Burgoon, ranked 162nd, had eight birdies and an eagle. His only bogey came on the par-4 13th.