Roberts conjures Monday magic

England's Oliver Roberts fired a 4-under 65 to win Monday's qualifier and earn entry into this week's PGA Tour Series-China Guangzhou Open.

Nine other players from seven different countries and regions also earned a spot in the tournament, which opens on Thursday.

Australia's Dale Williamson shot a 67 in his first trip to China to share second with South Korea's Jang Seung-bo, one ahead of India's Priyanshu Singh.

It was a third consecutive successful qualifier for Roberts, who also shot his way into the tour's last two events. He went on to miss the cut at the Suzhou Open but tied for 34th the following week at the Huangshan Championship.

The Hong Kong-based Roberts carded five birdies against just one bogey in hot conditions at Nansha Golf Club on Monday.

"I thought I played really well; I was patient, and I played really sensibly," he said.

"The pins were quite difficult. Some of them were sloping, so I just tried to take my chances when I could. On Thursday, I'll stick to the same formula. I have to be very patient, but a lot depends on the weather.

"Today was one of the hottest days I've played in all year, so that might dictate how the course plays and how everyone feels."

Amateur Aaron Du from China shot a 71 to share fifth place with Korea's Lee Jae-yeong and Chinese Taipei's Lee Chao-hua.

Two other Chinese amateurs, Hu Jiaxuan and Chen Peilen, along with Singapore's Marc Ong, were the final three to qualify after shooting 72s.