Angel Cabrera was just two off the pace as D A Points claimed top spot with a first round 64 at the Shell Houston Open.
American Points leads by one after his eight under par effort at Redstone, with compatriots Cameron Tringale and John Rollins on seven under.
Argentina’s Cabrera, a two-time Major Champion, had six birdies in his bogey-free round to join Jason Kokrak in fourth.
England’s Brian Davis was round in 67, one better than compatriots Lee Westwood and Greg Owen.
Ireland’s Shane Lowry, amongst those needing a big result to climb into the top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking on Sunday and secure a Masters Tournament invite, signed for a one under 71.
Rory McIlroy will need to improve on his one over par 73 in the second round to maintain his hopes of a victory that would take him back to World Number One.
