Henrik Stenson proved the hero for Europe as they saw off a spirited fightback from Asia to claim the inaugural Royal Trophy 9-7 at Amata Spring Country Club, near Bangkok.

Europe powered into a convincing 6-2 lead over Asia and need only two and a half points from tomorrow’s eight singles matches to win the inaugural Royal Trophy at a blustery Amata Spring Country Club near Bangkok.

Europe’s golfers made a strong start in their bid to claim the inaugural Royal Trophy but were faced with the prospect of a fightback from Asia this morning.

SEVE BALLESTEROS is determined to make it a hat-trick of wins as captain when he leads Europe against Asia in the Royal Trophy in Thailand.

THE CYNICS have already dismissed next weekend's inaugural $1.5 million (€1.2 million) Royal Trophy contest between Asia and Europe as nothing more than another glorified exhibition match.

Nine of the world’s top 10 golfers and 18 of the leading 40 have now turned down the chance to win nearly £400,000 (€580,000) at the World Cup in Portugal on November 17-20.

Darren Clarke shot a three-under-par 67 to gain a comfortable win in the Chunichi Crowns in Japan.