Back nine blitz for Goodwin

Cirencester’s Ed Goodwin produced a stunning back nine to take a share of top spot alongside Brickhampton Court’s Ross Langdon in the Gloucester and Somerset PGA medal at Naunton Downs.

He covered the inward nine in five-under-par 31 to secure his third win of the winter. It was Langdon’s fourth triumph and he has now extended his lead in the Total Triumph Order of Merit.

A heavy frost delayed the start for 30 minutes at the Cotswold outpost so once again it was decided to use the Stableford format over 17 holes, missing out the par three sixth hole across a valley to a frozen solid green. Despite the low single figure temperature, it was a sunny almost windless day.

Langdon, who missed the previous medal at Stinchcombe Hill, was first in with 38 points. After an opening par four he followed with three birdie threes and another three. He reached four under with a birdie at the long seventh.

But tree trouble at the tough ninth for a double bogey six set him back - his only blemish on the day. Seven further pars and birdies at the 13th and 17th completed a fine round.

Goodwin, in in the final group, looked an unlikely victor after dropping two shots in the opening five holes.  A birdie at the eighth ignited his round and an eagle three at the 10th was followed by birdies at the 11th, 13th and 16th.

He won both the birdie sweep and the Over 40’s prize. He has now jumped back into third spot in the Order of Merit.

Ashley Mansell (Clevedon), winner the previous week, was third on level par 34 points.  He hobbled his way around the course after picking up a knee injury the previous evening while playing football. He ended his day with two birdies.

Paul Barrington (InPlay Golf), Giuseppe Licata (Bristol Golf Centre), George Ryall (Players Club) Andrew March (Brean) shared the final prize money on 32 points.