For this week's Austrian Open, it may pay to follow players who have shown an aptitude for the course. More...
After two high profile events on the spin, the European Tour is more low key this week with many of the big names preferring to take the week off ahead of next week’s US Open.
The Course: Fontana G.C., Oberwaltersdorf, Vienna, Austria (par-71, 7,071 yards)
The course is set on flat, exposed ground, although the fairways and big bentgrass greens are quite undulating. A huge lake means that water is in play on more than half of the holes. There are just three par-5’s - 9th, 15th and the 18th. Length off the tee, while always an advantage, is less important here than solid iron play.
Ross’ Top Tip: Soren Hansen @ 16/1 Ladbrokes
It may pay to follow players who have shown an aptitude for the course, and the Dane certainly fits the bill having claimed second here in 2006 after four rounds in the 60’s, including a superb final round 65. This season, he went agonisingly close to victory in Spain only last month, and while he hasn’t done much since, this is an easier assignment. He looks the best of those at the sharp end of the market.
Next Best: David Howell @ 30/1 Boylesports
His game has been in a slump for a while now, but there were signs that he was about to return to former glories when second in the Portuguese Open in April and again in last week’s Welsh Open. After opening with a 75, he shot 66-68-69 to finish 35th and that sort of form would see him go close in an event with little strength in depth.
Outsider: Sam Little @ 80/1 sportingbet
The Englishman has some reasonable form at the course and his recent efforts at Wentworth (tied-30th) and Celtic Manor (tied-21st) suggest he’s coming into form. Snap up the 80’s on this lively outsider while it lasts.
Ross’ Match Bet: Soren Hansen to beat Jeev Milkha Singh @ 10/11 888sport
Recommended Bets:
Soren Hansen 1pt each way @ 16/1 Ladbrokes
David Howell 1pt each way @ 30/1 Boylesports
Sam Little 1pt each way @ 80/1 sportingbet