If you can't Pete them join them

Pacesetter Uihlein strikes a blow for the LIV rebels

- JIM BLACK

PETER UIHLEIN struck a blow for golf's rebels yesterday when the American grabbed a share of the first-round lead at the Dunhill Links Championship.

Uihlein, one of four LIV players invited to the £4million event by championship chief Johann Rupert, fired an opening 64 at the Old Course to join Swede Sebastian Soderberg and Spain's Adri Arnaus in top spot.

The former European Tour rookie of the year played in the same group as R&A chief Martin Slumbers and Saudi money-man Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the driving force behind LIV.

Slumbers and Al-Rumayyan were reluctant to comment on the breakaway body although Rupert is keen to broker a peace deal.

But Uihlein said: "It's a real treat being here and I'm trying to make the most of what is a good opportunity.

"Golf brings people together and it's nice Johann has extended an olive branch.