Westwood rediscovers winning touch

12 April 2012

Lee Westwood survived a faltering finish to claim his first European Tour win since 2003 in the Valle Romano Open de Andalucia.

Westwood carded a final round 67 at Aloha Golf Club for a 20 under par total of 268 to finish two shots ahead of compatriot Phillip Archer (65) and Sweden's Fredrik Andersson (66).

The world number 63 looked set for an easy stroll to his 17th tour title after racing to the turn in 31 and leading by five with just eight holes to play.

But a third bogey in five holes on the 15th, coupled with eagles on the 16th from Archer and Andersson, saw the Ryder Cup star's lead cut to just one shot.

The 34-year-old responded with a birdie on the 16th to edge two clear and holed from 40ft for par on the 18th to ensure he took the winner's cheque for £113,612.

Spain's Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano, one behind Westwood overnight and seeking back to back victories after winning the Italian Open in Milan on Sunday, faded to a closing 72 and share of seventh place.

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