Rory McIlroy fires impressive first competitive round at Riviera

Rory McIlroy (Getty Images) Rory McIlroy surged to the first page of the leaderboard in Thursday's first round of the Northern Trust Open as he made his Riviera debut.

McIlroy shot a 4-under 67, which was one shot behind early leaders at the PGA tour's Los Angeles event. He finished the first round with five birdies and one bogey.

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"I felt like I played pretty well for my first competitive round (here)," McIlroy said on Golf Channel. "I wanted to get off to a good start and I was pleased with the way I putted. My pacing was good on the greens and I hit a lot of quality irons."

Bubba Watson also got off to a hot start, with a 5-under 66. He finished his round…