Monday 23 May 2016 17:49, UK
Matthew Southgate was delighted to take advantage of a late call-up to the Irish Open field as he posted a career-best finish at the K Club.
Southgate was sidelined last season after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, but he returned to action after treatment and came through all three stages of the Qualifying School to regain his European Tour card.
The 27-year-old missed the cut in five consecutive tournaments earlier this year before claiming a top-20 finish at the Shenzhen International, and he arrived in Ireland as first reserve for the event hosted by Rory McIlroy.
But Southgate was added to the field on Monday night, and a closing 68 earned him outright fourth place on eight under as well as a substantial cheque for 200,000 euros (£155,000).
"It's been absolutely incredible," said Southgate shortly after punching the air with delight and embracing his caddie when he birdied the final to finish four adrift of champion McIlroy, who he played with in the third round.
"I wasn't even in the tournament Monday night. I was still first reserve and when I got the phone call I thought, right, this is a big opportunity.
"Something like this has been coming and I've been working really, really hard at it. I just stuck with my guns, done the stuff I've been working on in practice and it's all paid off."
