Dreadful play-off putt costs Gill Forest glory

EXETER'S Chris Gill lost out at the final hurdle in the Order of Merit Forest Classic at Forest Hills, despite finishing six-under after two rounds.

Gill was forced to play-off with eventual winner Richard Dinsdale and Edward Goodwin for the win.

Ben Jackson (vice captain Bells Forest of Dean) and Chris Hardy (captain Forest Hills) flank Forest Classic winner Richard Dinsdale with runners-up Ed Goodwin (left) and Exeter's Chris Gill (right) in front

But the Devonian missed one of the shortest putts of his career — just two-feet from the first hole — to leave himself lagging behind Dinsdale at the end.

"It was probably the worst putt of the season," laughed Gill, who still picked up prize money of more than £1,000 after coming joint second with Goodwin in the tournament.

But despite the loss, he is still on course for a host of titles — including the West Region Order of Merit — and also has the chance to qualify for this year's Open.

Gill will compete in the two-day local qualifying event at Western Gailes in Scotland on Monday and Tuesday for a place at one of the biggest tournaments in world golf.

He said: "I am still on course for my three main objectives this season: qualifying for The Open, winning the Order of Merit and winning a European Tour place at Tour School at the end of the year.

"I am flying to Scotland at the weekend for final qualifying for The Open and it's my big aim to get through.

"(In the Order of Merit) I have now strengthened my position at the top so that's looking good too."

Meanwhile, Exeter's Gary Milne and Sean Mason were 22nd and 26th respectively.