Jarrod Lyle didn’t repeat his hole-in-one party hole heroics of 2011 but did the next best thing in an opening round of 66 in a frost-hit Phoenix Open.

Lucky just to get a start on Thursday after going into the week as second alternate, Lyle is looking to capitalise after finishing the day two shots behind leader Ryan Palmer in a tie for third position.

A year ago, Lyle was the talk of the popular US PGA Tour event after be aced the intimidating stadium par-three 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale before stands of noisy fans during the second round.

And the good feelings were still there as he made a two on the hole with a 10-foot putt, one of four birdies in his round to go with an eagle at the par-five 13th.

“It kind of sends shivers down your spine a little bit,” Lyle said.

Having battled through the tour qualifying school last December, Lyle is playing for the fourth straight week and plans to contest at least three more tournaments before returning to Australia for the birth of his first child due in mid-March.

Lyle married his partner Briony after Q-school and told PGATour.com he hated not being with her at doctors’ appointments and pre-natal classes.

“She understands,” Lyle said. “She’s probably one of the most understanding women. She knows I had to come back over here.

“I’ve got a job to do and all that sort of stuff. But she also knows if she goes into labour, I’ll be getting the next flight.

“Obviously, it’s not going to be easy because I’ve still got 15 hours from LA back to Australia.”

The couple plan to head to their Orlando, Florida home once their baby is a couple of months old and to travel together in future.

“There are a lot of changes, but it’s going to be nice,” Lyle said. “I’m really looking forward to everything.”

Countryman Rod Pampling was one shot further back after a 67, while Greg Chalmers was the next best Australian with a 68.

Palmer finished his round in fading light, shooting a seven-under-par 64 to take the clubhouse lead.

Palmer parred the final hole just minutes before play was halted, leaving 46 players to complete their rounds on Friday after frost delayed the start of play by an hour on Thursday.

Webb Simpson, the top-ranked golfer in the field at No.6, was a stroke back after firing a 65.