CHAMBEAU OF HORROR

Dechambeau had no room for manoeuvre on 13 as he was tight to a tree (right)

THE ego crash-landed on the 13th – but Bryson Dechambeau climbed out of the wreckage of a double bogey to muscle on to the shoulders of the early leaders.

The US Open champion, who tamed Winged Foot in September, had claimed he c ould pl ay ano th er of America’s venerable old courses in 20 under par by targeting the par-5s.

Bulked-up Bryson, who has added 40lb of muscle since his last visit to Georgia, had taken particular aim at the 510-yard 13th.

Yet a hole identified as needing special protection by Augusta chairman Fred Ridley was clearly not as defenceless as it seemed.

Dechambeau hit his drive only 313 yards into the pine trees – and it’s a long way home from there.

Bravely or foolishly going for the green – depending on your view of golf ’s new superstar – Dechambeau yanked his next shot into bushes over the back of the green before re slapping his provisional ball into

Rae’s Creek.

Playing partners Jon Rahm and Louis Oost- huizen joined the search party in the flora before his first ball was located and he took a penalty drop. The world No.6 then chunked his f irst chip before taking two putts for a seven. Sky Sports comm commentator Butch H Harmon said: “If y you have got an ego on this course, it is going to catch you.” Non e of the l last 30 Masters win winners have scored worse than a six, which leaves Dechambeau needing to rewrite more records if he is to wear the Green Jacket on Sunday night.

But on a day of perfect scoring conditions after morning rain, the American beefcake’s aggressive game plan made for compelling viewing.

On-course microphones picked him up saying in amazement to his caddie Tim Tucker : “It’s short!” after his drive on the 350yard third hole failed to reach the green.

Nick Faldo had promised to “leap out of my (broadcast) tower and run naked around Augusta National” if Dechambeau drove the 445-yard first hole. Luckily for ever yone, the drive went only 322 yards.

Dechambeau saved his best for last with a 364-yard hit off the ninth to finish with a two-under-par 70, five behind early leader Paul Casey. It promises to be a rollercoaster ride.