LEE WESTWOOD found the silver lining to Oakmont’s clouds — by watching England beat Wales in the Euro 2016 Battle of Britain.
Thunderstorms meant the US Open first round was almost a total washout.
Before the first of three frustrating weather delays, Westwood holed his 124-yard approach to the 14th — his fifth hole — for a spectacular eagle to rocket into a share of second place on two under par.
And when the players were ordered off the course because of lightning, he rushed into the nearby media tent and cheered on England as they came from behind to beat Wales 2-1.
In between the stoppages, Westy continued the good form that saw him finish runner-up behind fellow Englishman Danny Willett at this year’s Masters.
He bounced back from back-to-back bogeys at the start of his second nine with a birdie at the fourth.
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That was the last hole he completed before the most violent thunderstorm caused a third stoppage — and at one under he was one of just seven players below par at that point.
The second delay also proved a timely one for Rory McIlroy, who sprinted to the clubhouse to watch Northern Ireland beat Ukraine 2-0.
Playing partner Willett quipped: “I’ve never seen someone so excited to watch Northern Ireland.”
There was not much else for either player to smile about, as they both slipped to four over par.
McIlroy will resume tomorrow with five holes left to play, while Willett has six remaining.
Westy has the final five holes of the front nine left and admitted: “It has been a frustrating day having to keep coming off.
“But there is nothing we can do about the weather. I am playing well, though, hitting it really nicely.
“I have missed it in the wrong spots but made some good birdies too.
“And the eagle at 14 was a real bonus. That was a four iron and then a wedge from 124 yards which screwed in sideways.
“That was great to see — just like England’s win!”
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