Forsyth set the early pace in Holland

Scotsman Forsyth, aiming for a place in the top 15 in the European order of merit, set the pace with six birdies in a bogey-free round of 64.

Welshman Donaldson, bidding to qualify for the the Volvo Masters, rolled in his eighth birdie of the day at 18.

Murphy had three birdies and an eagle as he finished strongly.

Forsyth is currently 19th on the order of merit, but wants to reach the top 15 to guarantee a place next year's Open and the US Open.

FIRST ROUND LEADERBOARD -6 Alastair Forsyth, Jamie Donaldson, Gary Murphy -5 David Carter, David Lynn, Fredrik Widmark (Swe) -4 Tony Johnstone (Zim), Henrik Stenson (Swe), Steen Tinning (Den), Rolf Muntz (Ned), Brett Rumford (Aus), Stephen Scahill (Nzl)

"This year has already been a big step forward for me by playing in two majors for the first time, as well as last week's World Golf Championship," said Forsyth.

"Now I'm looking for top 15 at the end of the season so I can have a similar experience."

David Lynn and David Carter of England were one stroke off the lead at five-under, alongside Swede Fredrik Widmark.

The highest ranked Dutchman was Rolf Muntz, one of six players who finished at four-under.