Aphibarnrat delighted with matchplay win in Scotland

Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat says he is happy to have won in Europe after clinching the Saltire Energy Paul Lawrie Match Play title.

The 26-year-old looked on course for a comfortable victory in Sunday’s final after opening up a three-hole lead with just four to play, but his Swedish opponent Robert Karlsson produced a stirring fightback.

The 2006 Ryder Cup star won the 15th, 16th and 17th to square the match heading to the last but the 45-year-old was unable to complete what would have been a sensational comeback.

Kiradech held his nerve and managed to sink a birdie putt on the 18th to secure a third win on the European Tour, his second of the season and first in Europe.

The Bangkok resident, who has been dubbed ‘Asia’s John Daly’ in honour of the big-hitting, two-time major champion, had previously picked up victories in the Maybank Malaysian Open and the Shenzhen International.

Aphibarnrat, who also defeated Marc Warren, Michael Hoey, Thomas Aiken, Graeme Storm and Wade Ormsby in the event north of the border, was delighted with his performance and at being able to tick off one of his goals this season.

“My next step was to win in Europe, so I am happy and so proud of myself,” he said. “I was striking the ball well and hitting it so good on the front nine, but then I lost a bit of energy and control.

“I started pulling some drives but I have to say I putted very well today and sank a lot of important putts — especially the putt to win, which was very short but it was great to see it hit the middle of the hole.

“I didn’t have too high expectations this week but I just came here and tried to enjoy the whole experience of playing in Scotland.”

Tagged European Tour, Kiradech Aphibarnrat, Paul Lawrie Matchplay