CHORLEY'S Nick Dougherty shot a level par 72 on the opening round of the Dubai Desert Classic.

The 25-year-old opened and closed with a bogey, but birdies on the 5th, 10th and 13th kept him in contention.

Tiger Woods though is the one they all have to stop again.

He carded an opening round seven-under-par 65 to open up a two stroke overnight lead.

Abu Dhabi Golf champion Martin Kaymer had a chance to stand alone in second spot, a shot adrift of the 2006 champion, but the European Tour Rookie of the year dropped a shot after seeing his par putt flirt with the edge of the hole.

The German is joined on five-under-by 10 others.