Luke Donald crashes out against Ernie Els, Tiger Woods makes narrow escape
With a long standing top seed streak of nine months, Luke Donald finally encountered the jolt of his career at the campaign opening match of World Championship match-play.
South African golfer Ernie Els, in his match against Donald, was able has built an early lead in the round and did not let it slip, later, finally emerging triumphant 5&4 against the world No. 1.
One year earlier, Donald had never trailed in any of the six games en route to the world title. However, the Englishman has never been able to take the lead against Els.
Commenting on the unanticipated defeat, he said, “It’s disappointing. To lose control of the ball like I did is really frustrating”.
He further added that he is disappointed with the way he performed in the very opening encounter of the championship.
According to Donald, he just lost his nerve while playing. Therefore, if it was Ernie or anyone else, it does not make much difference.
A similar fate victimised the chances of the legendary golf player Tiger Woods on the course of Dove Mountain. However, he made a narrow escape to clinch a one-shot lead against his Spanish opponent.
Following a delay in the hole against the Spaniard, Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano was winning until holes 15 and 16. Then he keyed a putt from eight feet for par on the 18th green which prevented the extension.
Tiger bounced back in the game by reaching the green at the 15th hole at par-5. He was able to make two putts for a birdie. This was yet again followed by a completely stable shot on the 16th.
However, the final nail in the coffin came when he was able to tee it off from eight feet for par.
The shot eventually served in providing him a lead of a stroke and subsequently resulted in the elimination of the Spaniard.
"We both made our share of mistakes, there's no doubt about that," said Woods.
It is important to mention here that WGC-Accenture Open is among the few golf events where the playoff involves 32 professional golfers.
Experts believe that the upcoming encounters will provide greater excitement and entertainment to people.
Tags: