Golf: Scahill back on track

COPENHAGEN - Stephen Scahill is headed to Moscow and this weeks' inaugural Russian Open golf tournament buoyed by a Nordic Open closing round of 65.

Scahill signed off at the inaugural event in Copenhagen today by carding a flawless seven-under-par last day effort that equalled his lowest score this season.

The Featherston golfer began the final round lying in a distant share of 70th place and 13 strokes from the lead before eventually settling for a share of 25th place, 11 shots behind winner Ian Poulter.

Compatriot Greg Turner was level with Scahill after a final round 70.

Scahill's 65 matched the score he recorded on the third day of May's Benson and Hedges International Open in England that helped earn him a share of third.

"Today's round is an equal low for me this year but the 65 I had a the Belfry was a much better effort given the situation I was in and vying for the lead," he said.

"It's relatively easy to go out at 7.24am like I did today with no pressure and do it but it's another story shooting a 65 around four or five o'clock on a Saturday afternoon with all the anxiety and nervousness that goes with getting yourself in contention."

Scahill singled out a tip he learnt from Jos Vanstiphout, the Belgian sports psychologist who works with Ernie Els and again started this week with Michael Campbell, as pivotal to his round of 65.

"Jos gave this tip about 12 months ago when I was playing in Switzerland and I only thought about it late yesterday on the range," said Scahill.

"I just relaxed my lower lip and that's what I deliberately sought to do as I played my shots.

"I know it's going to sound crazy but that was the key today."

Unlike previous European years, Scahill has had the luxury since May's third place result of being assured his place on the 2004 Tour.

The goal still ahead for Scahill, 33, is a first victory on the main European tour.

"I am really enjoying my golf this year whereas last year I feel as though I worked too hard on my technique," he said.

"I am starting to play golf as it should be played and not go out on the course thinking about taking 32 great swings in a round."

Scahill is heading to Moscow for a third golfing visit in seven years. He contested both the 1996 and 1999 Russian Opens when the event was part of the secondary Challenge Tour.

"It's an interesting course and after a four year absence, I am looking forward to going back and seeing how much more it has matured," he said.

Turner was headed in the opposite direction and returning home after his 11-under effort in Denmark.

Turner carded a final round that included 11 straight pars, a 12th hole eagle and then a further six pars to finish.

- NZPA