Monty top of the class once more

PAUL McGINLEY’S victory in the Volvo Masters at Valderrama and a 10th place finish for Padraig Harrington made it a memorable tournament for the Irish.

But it was also the day when Colin Montgomerie confirmed his status as one of the greatest European professionals when clinching the European Tour order of merit for the eighth time and the first since 1999.

“The Volvo Masters is a fantastic title and all credit to Paul McGinley for winning,” said Montgomerie. “He had a super weekend and it was one of the best weekends we’ve ever had at Valderrama and certainly the best crowds. I think it’s terrific for Paul, for Irish golf and Ireland. He’s all but sealed his Ryder Cup place and that’s good because we need as many Irish on the team as possible. He’s had a great year to almost win the World Match Play and then come here and win. But I had my own Volvo Masters to win, if you like, and I did that. I’m very, very happy.”