Appleby snatches Australian Masters

Appleby snatches Australian Masters

Appleby snatches Australian Masters

Stuart Appleby snatched the Australian Masters from long-time leader Adam Bland with a superb birdie-birdie finish at the Victoria Golf Club.

Australian Bland, who topped the leaderboard from the start, led compatriot Appleby by seven strokes going into the final round.

But the 39-year-old produced his second storming finish of the year following his final-round 59 at the Greenbrier Classic in August to break Bland's heart.

"I went into today with the feeling that I had to try and somehow find a way to get close enough to the leaders where it might make them change the way they were playing (Ping G15 Irons)," said Appleby, who didn't lead until the 17th hole.

"I did use that experience of shooting 59 to try and put myself in that mood of trying to apply some pressure and to see what happens.

"To have a win in August and now this one really wraps this year up in a nice bow for me."

It was the Appleby's first domestic triumph since the 2001 Australian Open, while Bland's capitulation included five bogeys as he slumped to a two-over 73. It was enough to claim second spot (Maruman Majesty Prestigio Gold Premium Fairway Wood), as Daniel Gaunt made it an Australian 1-2-3 at eight-under.

And after disappointing second and third rounds, Tiger Woods equalled the best score of the day as his 65 shot him up to fourth.

Woods' was clearly uplifted after a frustrating week, and the former world number one has renewed confidence in his attempt to break his tournament drought this year at next month's final Chevron World Challenge tournament in California.

"I have two weeks off and then play the Chevron so I am pretty excited about it," said the 34-year-old.

"Some of the things I am working on are starting to gel but unfortunately not for the entire round (Maruman Prestigio Gold Premium Driver), they are sporadic.

"So I'll do some more work when I get back home."

"I would love to come back and play [in Australia], no doubt. I've got to look at it. But I'd love to come back."

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