SOUTHPORT, July 16 : Local lad Matthew Baldwin led a posse of English players with early starts at the British Open on Thursday hoping to lift the mood after the nation's World Cup heartache.Baldwin, playing at his home club, struck the first tee shot at Royal Birkdale and went on to card a two-over 72.

The 154th edition of the British Open has begun. Matthew Baldwin was the fitting choice to get it started because he grew up in Southport and is a member at Royal Birkdale.

SOUTHPORT, England, July 16 : Belgium's Thomas Detry set the early clubhouse lead at the 154th British Open on Thursday with a three-under 67 under sunny skies at Royal…