Scotland (11 June 2015) – The Scots carried a 12 stroke lead into the second day of the Tri-Series against South Africa and Australia, but the Aussies defeated the home favourites for victory at Castle Stuart Golf Links in Inverness, Scotland on Thursday.
The Australians made hay in the glorious sunny weather.
The five best scores from six counted each day towards the team total, with an individual competition also running for the best two scores combined.
Number one ranked Lucas Herbert led the attack for the Australian A-team with a superb seven-under-par 65. The A-team rallied for 340 points to tie the Scots on 14-under-par 706 after the host union combined for a second round 356.
The Aussies took the glory, though, thanks to their better combined score on day two.
Robert MacIntyre led the Scottish challenge with a 68 and tied Ruffles for first place in the Individual Competition on seven-under-par 137.
Meanwhile South Africa’s Matthew Spacey enjoyed a 10 shot swing and his second round 68 even upstaged the 70 from professional Todd Sinncott from Australia, who stood in for injured Teaghan Gauche.
The Central Gauteng amateur reeled in half-a-dozen birdies to vault to a tie for 11th on two-over 146 in the individual standings.
James du Preez, Jason Smith and Hendrikus Stoop from Gauteng North carded respective rounds of 76, 79 and 83, while Southern Cape’s Jade Buitendag signed for a 78.
“I don’t think the lads played to their potential today, but we were all really excited for Spacey, who had a champion’s innings,” said team manager, Kevin Stone.
“We did have the advantage of Todd in the first round and his great 63 helped us a lot, but we were quite disappointed to be beaten by the Australian B-team, as well. It was a fantastic for the players to experience this fantastic golf course, though, and I am sure they all learned a lot, especially on these huge putting greens.
“It was a five-star experience for the team and we are all extremely thankful to the Scottish Golf Union for their hospitality and generosity. We have a lot of work to do ahead of the Amateur Championship, but everyone’s spirits are high and they are eager to get started.”
The South Africans will tee it up at Carnoustie and Panmure Golf Clubs in the 120th Amateur Championship from 15 – 20 June.
To view the results of the Tri-Series, click HERE
PHOTO – Gauteng North’s James du Preez; credit SAGA.