Golf: Positives for Saltmans

Lothians brothers Lloyd and Elliot Saltman will head for Girona in north-east Spain this weekend in upbeat mood after coming through stage two of the European Tour's qualifying school.

The Aegon aces both survived the 72-hole qualifier yesterday and will now look to join forces on the main circuit next season at the six-round showdown at PGA Catalunya.

Former Open silver medal winner Lloyd closed with a three-over 75 in tough conditions at Costa Ballena in Jerez for a three-under 285 and shared 15th place, with the top 23 progressing to the final stage.

Saltman's older brother Elliot signed off with a one-over 73 at Hacienda Del Alamo in Murcia and held on to the 21st of 23 qualifying spots on offer with a five-under 283.

While the Saltman siblings celebrated taking another step towards a place at the top table, there was bitter disappointment for Capital man John Gallagher, who missed out after a damaging closing round at the Costa Ballena venue. Sitting inside the qualifying places with one round to play, he posted an 81 and tumbled down the field with a 291.