Alex Gleeson digs deep for AIG Irish Amateur Close

Castle’s Alex Gleeson shrugged off some late resistance from Whitehead’s John-Ross Galbraith to win the AIG Irish Amateur Close title 3 and 1 on the majestic Glashedy Links at Ballyliffin.

The 22-year old Dubliner had to dig deep in the morning semi-finals to beat 18-year old Peter Kerr from Royal Portrush, hitting a stunning 154-yard eight iron to four feet at the 18th to set up a one-hole win.

But while it looked for a long time he would cruise to a comfortable victory over his Ireland team mate, having built a four up lead with five holes to play, Galbraith showed the fighting qualities that made him Irish Close champion two years ago and took the match to the 17th.