Maybin fails to win South African Open in play-off

Richard Sterne edged out Northern Ireland’s Gareth Maybin on the first play-off hole to win the South African Open today after both players finished 14 under at Pearl Valley Golf Estates.

Sterne, who also won the Alfred Dunhill Championship seven days ago, shot a final round of 66 to move into contention after overnight leader Lee Westwood struggled to a closing 73 to finish one behind.

Maybin had a chance to win on the final hole of regulation but saw his birdie putt from eight feet lip out, and when the players returned to the 18th in sudden death Sterne produced a birdie four to claim victory.

Westwood shared third with Rory McIlroy and four-time winner Ernie Els, who had set the clubhouse target after a scintillating final round of 64.

English pair Richard Finch and Chris Wood – fifth in the Open as an amateur in July – and South African duo Branden Grace and Retief Goosen were a shot further back on 12 under.