Marc Leishman has vowed to keep a cool head in a bid to convert another strong major tournament start into Sunday success.

Leishman took advantage of glorious morning conditions at Royal Liverpool to post a three-under 69 and sit tied ninth after the first round of the British Open on Thursday.

The 30-year-old Victorian is no stranger to contending early at big tournaments.

He was two shots off the lead after the first round of this year’s US Masters before collapsing to miss the cut, while he shared the opening-round lead at last year’s Masters before fading to finish fourth behind countryman Adam Scott.

Leishman believes he’s been falling away too easily when things don’t go his way but is confident the experience gained in recent years will be vital in the coming days at Hoylake.

“For me, it’s about not getting so frustrated when I make bogeys,” Leishman said.

“This year at the Masters I got pretty frustrated and let things get to me (with a second-round 79).

“Generally the courses are a lot tougher at majors and you’re going to have bogeys.

“I think the more you play, the more you understand that.

“I think my game’s good enough to contend so managing frustration is the big thing.”

Leishman is yet to make his mark at the British Open, missing the cut in the past two years and tying for 60th on debut in 2010.

However the big-hitting Australian believes he’s coming to terms with links golf and feels a fair Hoylake layout will reward good play.

“I really like this golf course. I think any player with any type of game can win it,” said Leishman, who birdied three of Royal Liverpool’s four par 5s on Thursday.

“If I play well, I’m going to have a chance.

“I haven’t done great at the Open but I’m looking to change that record this week.”