Spanish win is Russell's first title in 14 years

RAYMOND Russell survived an early wobble to claim his first major title in 14 years with victory in the Alps Tour's Emporda Open in Spain.

The 37-year-old Scot, who won the European Tour's Cannes Open back in 1996, closed with a one-under 70 for an 11-under 202 and a two-shot win over Italy's Matteo Delpodio and Spanish duo Carlos Del Moral and Xavier Guzman.

Russell, leading by three strokes heading into the closing round, made a perfect start to his title bid with a birdie on the first hole but he toppled off the top with a calamitous run of five dropped shots over the next three holes.

The Prestonpans pro rallied and picked up another five birdies, including two in a row at 17 and 18, to edge back to the front and pick up the top prize of almost 6,000. "I told myself to take it the same as on the first two days and I managed to make a few more birdies," said Russell.

Perth's Gavin Dear sagged to a closing 75 and finished near the foot of the standings on a 216.