Masters set up for a Matt finish

THE youngest player in the British Masters at Woburn could record his first victory on the European Tour today but he will have to beat one of his boyhood heroes.

His career has mirrored Luke Donald’s in so many ways but the latter shot a best of the day third-round 65 to be in position to deny Fitzpatrick victory.

Both had stellar amateur careers, both went to Northwestern University in Chicago and now Fitzpatrick is trying to reach the top of the game the same way Donald did — without the benefit of a bomber’s length off the tee.

The difference is former world No 1 Donald was 26 when he registered his maiden triumph and Fitzpatrick, after an excellent summer, is in position to put his first Tour trophy in the cabinet at 21.

Fitzpatrick shot 68 — his third consecutive round in the sixties — to be tied for the lead with gifted Thai Kiradech Aphibarnrat. Donald is just three shots behind, alongside Shane Lowry.

Fitzpatrick has been a young man transformed since a thrilling duel with fellow Sheffield pro Danny Willett for the European Masters in Crans, Switzerland, in July. ‘Going toe to toe with such a great player as Danny gave me so much confidence and I’ve felt very comfortable on tour since then,’ said Fitzpatrick who has three top-three finishes in his past seven events.

As for Donald, a huge round awaits this afternoon when victory would move him back into the world’s top 50 and open so many doors as far as getting into the majors and other important events is concerned.

The relaunch of this much-loved event has brought an impressive response from the English contingent. There are seven in the top 13, including Lee Westwood, who shot 67 and will start five back today. Ian Poulter shot 70 to be seven adrift.