Phillip Archer clinging to Ryder Cup chase

Feb 12 2008 by Richard Williamson, Liverpool Daily Post

Phillip Archer

PHILLIP ARCHER continued his consistent start to 2008 in India.

The Warrington golfer, who completed all three events as the European Tour swung through the Middle East in the past month, also played all four rounds when the schedule visited Delhi for the India Masters.

Archer eventually finished 48th overall with an eight over par total of 296. However it could have worked out better for the Birchwood-attached player after he moved into the top 20 at the halfway stage after rounds of 74,69.

However in tricky, blustery conditions and on greens where putting was becoming increasingly difficult, Archer slipped away with rounds of 76,77.

That left Archer with a cheque for 7,238 euros to leave him in 86th position on the European Order of Merit from six appearances with 41,565 euros. His world ranking is now 112th while he remains on the fringes of the chase for a Ryder Cup place.

Archer struggled for consistency on all but one day. He suffered double bogeys at nine and 15 on the opening day to go with two bogeys and four birdies on his way to a two over 74. Day two was his pick of the week with three birdies and 15 pars seeing him safely through the cut with a 69.

He started the third round with successive birdies but dropped five shots in the next seven holes, while the last day saw two birdies in the first five holes undone by eight dropped shots in the next ten before a birdie at 16.

Archer takes a break this week when the tour visits Indonesia for the Enjoy Jakarta Astro Indonesia Open, which sees both Paul Waring (Bromborough) and Lee Slattery (Formby Hall) in the entry list.