Mikko Ilonen Holds Lead at 2017 Scottish Open During Thursday's Play

Mikko Ilonen jumped to the top of the leaderboard at the 2017 Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open at Dundonald Links in Troon, Scotland, shooting a round of seven-under 65 to lead on Thursday's opening day.

Four men were tied at summit earlier in the day as Rickie Fowler, Ian Poulter, Callum Shinkwin and Andrew Dodt shot five under, but Ilonen closed Thursday as the man to beat.

Poulter showed he is back to his best after putting with accuracy against a competitive field.

Rory McIlroy suffered a poor day on the greens, ending on two-over as he finished down the leaderboard.

For a full look at the leaderboard, visit EuropeanTour.com.

Recap

Ilonen stole control of the leaderboard late on Thursday, finishing on seven-under to leapfrog the field.

The Finnish golfer was supreme as he gave a commanding performance, hitting seven birdies to jump ahead of Fowler and Poulter.

It had appeared there would be a four-way tie at the top of the leaderboard, but Ilonen's consistency could not be matched.

The European Tour highlighted the leader's form and scoring:

Fowler proved he will be in contention for the title in Ayrshire as he posted five birdies to card a strong opening round of 67.

The American star was relaxed and composed during his first round on the course, sinking putts with regularity.

Fowler is beginning to show the consistency expected of his talent, and he appeared at home on the windy links course.

Poulter rolled back the years to match Fowler's efforts, with his round of 67 keeping him in close contention.

The Englishman sank four birdies on his front-nine, but a magnificent eagle on No. 14 was immediately followed by two bogey putts.

The European Tour quoted the former Ryder Cup hero as he found great rhythm:

McIlroy's form has collapsed in recent months, and the superstar could only finish on two-over as he scored a round of 74.

The iconic golfer hit four bogeys and a double-bogey as he struggled to hit top gear, and he was clearly dismayed by his efforts.

It will be challenging for Ilonen to repeat his success during the opening round in Scotland, and with Fowler within striking distance, the American will believe this competition is there for the taking.

Fowler has ambition to win majors, and this tournament will fine tune his game ahead of the Open at Royal Birkdale, England.