Slattery wins Russian Open

Slattery wins Russian Open

MOSCOW - England's Lee Slattery claimed his first European Tour title in four years by just one shot at the Moscow Open on Sunday.

England's Lee Slattery, pictured on October 10, 2013, claims his first European Tour title in four years by just one shot at the Moscow Open

Slattery, 37, posted a two-under-par 69 in his fourth round at Skolkovo Golf Club to finish on 15 under and secure a first victory since the Madrid Masters in 2011.

Argentine Estanislao Goya finished second on 14 under, with last year's champion David Horsey of England a stroke back on 13 under.

After fog had delayed the start of play by two hours, Slattery got his round off to the perfect start carrying a two-shot overnight advantage over playing partner Goya and Scotland's Craig Lee.

But, despite an opening birdie, by the sixth hole he trailed his Argentinian rival by one and that deficit had doubled by the 12th.

Bogeys by Goya at 13 and 15 -- either side of a birdie for Slattery -- edged the English player ahead again.

And a chip-in at the 17th gave him a two-shot cushion heading down the last as Goya birdied but Slattery's 69 was enough to secure his second European Tour win.

"It has been a difficult year so it's just nice to be able to finish the year off like this, with a win, knowing that I can plan next year now and hopefully get myself going again to where I belong," said Slattery.

Goya's 68 kept him just ahead of Horsey, who also shot 68 to finish one ahead of a group on 12 under which included 2013 champion Michael Hoey after his 64.

Do you like the content of this article?
COMMENT