Thailand star wins Paul Lawrie Matchplay
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No. 4 seed Kiradech Aphibarnrat – Asia’s answer to John Daly – scored a thrilling one hole victory over Swede Robert Karlsson in the final of the inaugural Paul Lawrie Matchplay at Murcar, Aberdeen.
Thailand’s in-form star secured his second European Tour title of the year, reaching the decider after disposing of home favourite Marc Warren 3&2 in the semis.
But the 26-years-old victor nearly blew it – he was three ahead with four holes to play, but he lost three holes in a row before winning on the final green.
“The next step was to win in Europe, I’m happy and proud of myself,” said Aphibarnrat, whose previous wins came in Malaysia and China.
Aphibarnrat began the final with three birdies in the first four holes and fully deserved his victory and first prize of £122,000.
Karlsson needed 20 holes to defeat former Ryder Cup team-mate David Howell in the semis.
Englishman Howell defeated Warren by one hole in the third and fourth play-off.
