'Feels awesome to beat Ernie'

2007-02-04 15:08

Dubai - Ryder Cup hero Henrik Stenson sunk a testing 10-footer at the last to trump both Ernie Els and Tiger Woods in winning the Dubai Desert Classic on Sunday.

The 30-year-old Swede, who holed the winning putt against the Americans in Ireland last September, was steadiest among the leaders on a day when a warm desert wind whipped up sand and dust to make it a struggle all the way.

He came in with a four-under 68 for a 19-under total of 269 and a one-stroke victory over Els who started the day in the lead two shots ahead of the Swede but lost vital ground with three bogeys in the first six holes.

Defending champion Woods finished a stroke further adrift.

Back-to-back bogeys after the turn made his chase of the leaders almost impossible. He did manage three straight birdies from the 12th, but it was all too late as he came in with a 69.

Level with Woods in joint third place came Sweden's Niclas Fasth who closed with a 68 with the revelation of the week, Englishman Ross Fisher alone in fifth at 16-under after coming in with a 71.

Stenson reached the par-five 18th with a one stroke lead over Els. He laid up in two while an attack-minded Els hit over the back of the green.

The Dubai-based Stenson hit a wonderful approach over the water to 10 feet and sunk the winning putt calmly with Els just four feet following his deft approach.

"I fought hard all week and to beat Ernie by one. It feels awesome," he said.

"I hit a pretty good approach and I could not have left myself a better putt than that one.

"Living down here in Dubai and having my friends and family with me this week is something special."

- AFP