Crowd favorite Tommy Fleetwood shares the British Open lead. Rory McIlroy is among the survivors

By DOUG FERGUSON
AP Golf Writer

HOYLAKE, England (AP) — The British Open can still deliver a surprise or two. Christo Lamprecht is the first amateur in 12 years to share the lead. Joining him is local hero Tommy Fleetwood and Emiliano Grillo. But this opening round at Royal Liverpool for so many was about hanging in there. Rory McIlroy salvaged an even-par 71 with a fortunate par on the 18th after taking two shots to get out of a bunker. Justin Thomas made a 9 on the last hole for his highest round in a major at 82. Avoiding the pot bunkers was the key to scoring.