Poulter does enough as Donald runs out of steam

ENGLAND’S Luke Donald missed out on a glorious opportunity to become world number one when he lost to Ian Poulter at the Volvo World Match Play Championship final at Finca Cortesin yesterday.

Poulter, 35, led a charmed life throughout the event, frequently coming from behind to stay in contention before disposing of a weary Donald by 2&1 to collect a cheque for €800,000.

Both finalists are expert in this format with Poulter the WGC Accenture World Champion in 2010 and Donald claiming the crown this year.