KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's Gavin Green gave a creditable show at the Czech Masters and won RM300,000 yesterday.
But he misses out on his maiden European tour title after finishing third in a strong field.
Gavin, who won last year’s Asian Tour Order of Merit title, finished five strokes behind winner Andrea Pavan of Italy.
The big-hitting Malaysian was right up there in the mix with the leaders in the early rounds.
But he faced some trouble on the back nine to shoot three birdies for a closing round of three-under-69 for a 17-under-par 271.
“I played solid and gave myself a lot of looks but unfortunately some shots didn’t drop on the back nine,'' he said.
“I made some putts towards the end and gave myself a lot of looks, 15-16 footers, barely kissing the hole but it is what it is.
“Been a positive week and I’m happy with the way I handled myself out there,” added Gavin, who came in three shots behind runner-up and three-time Major winner, Padraig Harrington.
Nonetheless, the 24-year-old is pleased with his performance as his chances of keeping his European Tour card are looking great.
“I’m probably pretty close to keeping my card and I’m positive, a couple more events coming up so, hopefully one or two good finishes and I’ll be happy.''