Burgoon leads at CIMB Classic, Thomas three strokes back

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Justin Thomas birdied four of his last five holes for a 6-under 66 and was three strokes behind first-round leader Bronson Burgoon at the CIMB Classic on Thursday.

Burgoon’s 63 on the par-72 TPC Kuala Lumpur West Course gave him a one-stroke lead over Austin Cook. Scott Piercy, Billy Horschel and C.T. Pan were another stroke back after 65s.

Thomas, the highest-ranked player in the field at No. 4, was in an eight-way tie for sixth, including 2012 champion Nick Watney, Kevin Chappell and Paul Casey.

“You have to play well here every day or at least get a round like today … it’s what could end up winning me this golf tournament,” Thomas said.

“Not having my best stuff and getting around here in 6under is huge. I just didn’t take advantage of a couple opportunities and let a couple go, but kind of found something there those last five holes and was able to at least make a good round.”

Burgoon, ranked 162nd, had eight birdies and an eagle. His only bogey came on the par-4 13th.

“I drove it well and I putted pretty good, so it was kind of boring golf, but that’s always a good thing,” Burgoon said. “I chipped in for eagle out of the bunker on my ninth hole, which kind of boosted me, then I kept going.”

Defending champion Pat Perez shot 70.