IRISHMAN DAMIEN MCGRANE was defeated on the first hole of a play-off against England’s David Horsey at the Russian Open this afternoon.
McGrane appeared to be destined for victory in regulation play as he showed superb form throughout his round, shooting four birdies in the opening 10 holes of his day at the Tseleevo club.
The Kells man added three further excellent birdies before the final hole, when he agonisingly found a bunker and ended with a bogey five. While that did still mean a high-quality six-under round of 66, and a total tally of 13-under, it gave overnight leader Horsey a lifeline.
The English golfer held his nerve for a par on the 18th, after an eagle on 17, thereby forcing a play-off with McGrane.
Michael Hoey’s Irish win at the Russian Open last year was not to be repeated, however, as Horsey claimed victory on the first play-off hole.
McGrane again shot a bogey on the par four 18, while Horsey repeated his feat of sinking his putt with his fourth shot to claim the €166,660 winner’s cheque, as the runner-up collected €111,110.
43-year-old McGrane will be buoyed by his form over the final round, but disappointed not to have sealed the deal in Russia.
