Farmingdale, New York - Tiger Woods began the defence of his US Open title with a battling 4-over-par 74 on Friday in the rain-delayed opening round at Bethpage, New York.

Woods and playing partner Angel Cabrera, the Masters champion, finished tied as organizers tried to get the tournament back on track after the deluge of Thursday that left
78 players unable to even begin their first round.

Woods and Cabrera were five shots behind early clubhouse leaders Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland and American Drew Weaver, who each fired superb 1-under- par 69s.

Englishman Ian Poulter and Swede Johan Edfors were among a five-strong group of players on level par.

Another Englishman, Lee Westwood, was on 2 over par after a 72, while compatriot Luke Donald fired a 74 to be alongside Woods and Cabrera.

Open and US PGA champion Padraig Harrington birdied the last but that only helped him to a 76, 6 over par.

With more rain forecast, organizers have already admitted that a Monday finish is more likely than not.(dpa)