End of an era as Matthew triumphs

Scotland’s Catriona Matthew held off a dramatic back nine charge from defending champion Suzann Pettersen to clinch a one-stroke victory in the Ladies Irish Open at Killeen Castle.

But what the future holds for the event remains to be seen as the “Solheim Cup era” drew to a close with all 15 sponsors officially ending their involvement last night.

AIB will not be back and Fáilte Ireland’s commitment will depend on budgetary constraints, leaving the now independent tournament promoter Roddy Carr with a huge challenge.