Easy for Nocera in Holland

Frenchwoman Gwladys Nocera claimed her fourth European Tour title with a comprehensive seven-stroke victory at the KLM Open in Holland.

Having set a course record eight-under-64 in the first round, the 32-year-old from Moulins carded a two-under-par 70 in the second round and closed with a five-under 67.

She finished on a total of 15-under-par at Eindhovensche Golf to finish seven shots clear of her compatriot Virginie Lagoutte-Clement, who had a 69.

England’s Georgina Simpson was third on seven-under-par after a 73.

Nocera became the seventh French winner of the event and the third consecutive French winner. Previously, Stephanie Arricau won on the same golf course in 2006 and Virginie Lagoutte-Clement claimed the title in 2005 at Kennemer G&CC.

She collected more than £18,000 and 40 Solheim Cup points, increasing her lead on the European rankings and further bolstering her chances of regaining a place in the European Solheim Cup team, ahead of September’s clash with America.

Simpson was disappointed with her final round but pleased with her position.

The 31-year-old from Cleckheaton said: “I struggled a bit and got off to an edgy start.

“But I scored in the middle, made a few birdies and just didn’t hole any more putts coming in.

“I managed to get over the nerves and play steady so I’m happy.

“I’ll take a third. One day I’ll come back and win this – maybe next year.

“I’m going to take a week off now so I’m looking forward to having some time at home.”