Bob content despite shot at Masters glory slipping away

Bob MacIntyre’s erratic start to the season reared its head again at the weekend as he let the chance of a top ten finish in the British Masters slip on the final day, writes Brian Hossack.

The Oban man had put himself right in the mix after two fine rounds of 70, followed by a gutsy par 72 which saw him hover close to the top of the leaderboard at The Belfry on Sunday.

But six bogeys on an error-strewn closing 76 put paid to his hopes of silverware and saw him finish in a tie for 39th place.

It had been a tournament that promised much after a first round that included six birdies - including four in the first nine holes. But the inconsistency that has marred the 26-year-old’s game this year returned, resulting in him also carding four bogeys over the opening 18, something he will need to try and eradicate as he continues to try and chase down a Ryder Cup spot. The Glencruitten man at least seemed to show a new zeal and his short game lit up the windy Brabazon Course.

He told the assembled media that he ‘loved the Belfry’, despite often struggling off the tee. But he can take heart from the mental resilience he found by refusing to become frazzled, annoyed or angry by the bad shots.

MacIntyre’s third round in particular was played in tough conditions, but he showed great fortitude to card a level par 72 despite a number of errant drives.

He said afterwards: “That score was down to attitude, determination and fight. I said to Greg (Milne, his caddie) coming down the last few holes, attitude is everything in this game and I kind of realised that more than ever this week.

“I’m proud of the way we fought out there to stay in contention until the final day.”