McDowell confident ahead of Dubai showdown

Graeme McDowell believes he is playing well enough to win next week’s Dubai World Championship despite failing to challenge eventual winner Ian Poulter at the UBS Hong Kong Open today.

McDowell started the final round just two shots behind overnight leader Poulter but was undone by two bogeys in his first three holes.

McDowell recovered on the back nine with four birdies but by then it was already too late to really threaten his 2010 Ryder Cup colleague, but the US Open champion was not disheartened with his finish and felt there was little wrong with his game over the course of the four rounds.

McDowell is second to Martin Kaymer in the Race to Dubai and he is confident he is in perfect form as he bids to finish the season as Europe’s number one.

“I’m within touching distance now of next week,” he said. “I’ve got to play well, simple as that.

“I can’t control Martin’s ball; I can only control mine. I’m going to go in there next week and try to play my own game.

“I have a few things to brush up on before Thursday, but all in all, I have been driving the ball great, which is key to next week and I’m feeling really good about my game.

“I’m playing well enough to win next week and that’s all I can ask.”

Poulter’s victory was a deserved one, with the Englishman having only recorded his first bogeys of the tournament today whilst also carding the best round all week with a 10-under 60 on Friday.

“He’s a great player and it is great to see him back in the winner’s circle here in Europe,” added McDowell.

“He’s a top player and it is great to see him playing well again.

“Personally, I’m very happy with my week, disappointed with my start, but no disappointments in general this week. So I am very happy with my form and very happy with the energy levels going into Dubai next week.

“Let’s be honest, it’s been a great year and anything that happens next week is going to be a bonus. I’m just going to go there and play calm and confident golf.”