DAVID Howell got off to a dream start at the Joburg Open with a five-under-par first round this morning.

The Broome Manor’s total of 66 was built on a sparkling front nine at the Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club. Playing the West Course, Howell posted early birdies at the second, fifth, sixth and ninth.

Play was much steadier as Howell headed home, although he was still able to post a bogey-free round and added a fifth birdie of the day at the 14th hole.

The 39-year-old is currently in tied for ninth, with South African Titch Moore and Thomas Pieters, of Belgium, holding the clubhouse lead at eight under.

Howell will play the second round on the East Course tomorrow morning, teeing off at 9.15am UK time.