Els waits on Clarke

ERNIE ELS may have to hit only one more shot to win the European Order of Merit title.

With Darren Clarke still able to catch Els by winning next week’s Madrid Open and the following week’s Volvo Masters, the South African now might change his mind and play in the second of those.

Last place at Valderrama would be enough to give Els the money list crown and it was confirmed today by director of tour operations David Garland that, if he hit his opening drive and then withdrew, Els would receive the money he needs to be sure of the title.

In 1996, Australian Robert Allenby fractured his sternum in a car crash just before the Volvo Masters, but flew from his Melbourne home to hit a 30-yard drive before quitting.

Els may not have to hit even that one shot. If Clarke fails to win at Club de Campo next week, there is no need for him to go to Valderrama.