Pugh puts down Walker Cup marker after dramatic play-off victory

WELSH teenager Rhys Pugh claimed the Irish Amateur Open after a dramatic three-hole aggregate play-off at a wind-lashed Royal Dublin to take a giant step towards Walker Cup selection later this year.

The 17-year-old grabbed the first senior win of his career when he beat Scotland’s Gordon Stevenson by four shots in winds gusting over 30 mph.

“It’s probably the biggest win of my career so far,” said a delighted Pugh. “It pushes me up to the next level. Walker Cup, who knows? Hopefully. I don’t pick the team. I’m just looking forward to the St Andrews Links which is my next event.”