Top ten finish for Scots duo

Published on Sunday 17 April 2011 16:47

Scotland's Catriona Matthew and Vikki Laing saved their best for last and clinched a top ten place with a closing 66 in the European Nations Cup at La Sella in Spain. Sweden's Anna Nordqvist and Sophie Gustafson successfully defended their title.

North Berwick's Matthew and Musselburgh player Laing had seven birdies in the final day foursomes for an 11-under par total and finished in a share of ninth place.

The highlight was the back nine of 32, which included three birdies in a row from the 11th and another at the 15th. Nordqvist and Gustafson started the day three clear of the field, but found themselves just one stroke ahead after dropping their first shot of the week at the seventh hole. But they then hit back with four birdies and posted a 68 for a winning 21 under par total.

England's Laura Davies and Melissa Reid eagled the 18th for a 66 to snatch a tie for second place on 18 under par alongside Germany's Caroline Masson and Anja Monke, who had an even better 65. Wales' Becky Brewerton and Lydia Hall finished fourth on 17 under following a 68.