Brandt Snedeker worked wonders with a borrowed set of golf clubs to begin the World Match Play Championship, crushing Thomas Bjorn of Denmark 5 and 4 on Thursday.

The lone American in the 24-man field teed off with only 10 clubs in his replacement bag – including a putter bought from the pro shop – while his normal set was being couriered from the airport following a delay in the arrival of his luggage to Spain.

By the time his clubs arrived at the Finca Cortesin course – allowing him to fill his bag to the maximum 14 – Snedeker was 3 up after three holes.

Meanwhile, Ian Poulter of England started the defence of his title with a 3 and 2 win against John Senden of Australia.