Westwood riding Masters wave at Oakmont

After almost breaking through for his first major title at the Masters, U.S. Open contender Lee Westwood is full of confidence and it is on show in Pennsylvania.

Runner-up at Augusta in April - his first top-three finish at a major tournament since tying for third at the 2011 U.S. Open, Westwood is riding a wave of momentum at Oakmont Country Club, with the Englishman just a shot behind leading duo Dustin Johnson and Andrew Landry.

Westwood completed his opening round early on Friday, with the former world number one posting a three-under-par 67 to be in sole possession of third position.

"It was good. One of the best starts I've ever had," Westwood told reporters.

"I felt confident out there and hit a lot of good shots. I was shaping it both ways, which you need to do in U.S. Opens to get at a lot of the flags.

"I'm pleased with the start, no doubt about that.

"I've been playing well. Really looking forward to coming back to Oakmont. I had a good experience here the last time, albeit everybody found it tough. I like a challenge. This golf course is certainly a challenge. It tests you mentally.

"I sort of picked up where I left off at the Masters and the last three weeks I've played. I hit the ball well, a lot of fairways, a lot of greens. I hit it close quite a lot, 26 putts. Made some nice putts out there, and I'm pleased with the start. It's a good way to start this championship.

"You don't really want to be shooting a lot over par and having to chase."

Of his display at the Masters, the 43-year-old added:  "It gave me a big boost, a big shot of confidence.

"I haven't contended in a big tournament for a while. So it was nice to get up there and hang about and give myself a chance."