Experienced campaigners David Higgins and Brendan McGovern shared top spot at the Palmerstown Charity Pro-Am on Friday.

The duo finished a shot ahead of Cian McNamara, Neil O'Briain, Paul Masterson  and Glen Robinson at the tournament held in aid of Irish Autism Action.

Higgins, who is currently lying second in the Order of Merit, started brightly with three birdies inside the opening five holes.The Kerry man went to the turn in three under par 33, added a fourth birdie at the 15th but dropped a shot at the 17th to sign for a 69.

In contrast, McGovern started slowly and went to the turn in level par 36 with a bogey at the fifth cancelled out by a birdie two at the eighth.

The Headfort pro picked up the pace on the back nine with birdies at the 11th, 14th and 17th to come home in three under 33. In the team event Neil O'Briain (Old Conna) edged out Daniel Beattie (Deer Park) with 93points.

The Palmerstown Charity Pro-Am in aid of Irish Autism Action at Palmerstown Stud GC (par 72)

Detailed scores

T1 D Higgins (Waterville Links), B McGovern (Headfort) 69

T3 C McNamara (Monkstown GC), N O'Briain (Old Conna GC), P Masterson (Coolattin GC), Glen Robinson 70

T7 W O'Callaghan (Fernhill GC), M McDermott (Pure Golf Leopardstown), D Mooney (Ballyliffin), N Murray (Massereene GC) 71