Phillip Archer blown away by first Open experience

Jul 21 2008 Richard Williamson

PHILLIP ARCHER will have more reason than most to look forward to his next lie-in.

The Warrington golfer was delighted to make the final weekend of his first Open Championship but then found himself with two early start times.

After making the halfway cut on the limit at nine over par, Archer was out on his own on Saturday at 7.30am while yesterday saw the 36 year-old tee off at 7.50am.

He made a fantastic start to his final round by escaping from the rough on the right of the first fairway and rolling in a 20 foot putt for a birdie.

But with the winds once again battering the Southport links, Archer found the exertions of the week taking their toll as he shipped eight bogeys for a final day 77.

Added to his previous scores of 75 74 78, the Birchwood-attached player, who was supported by club members and family throughout, finished in 81st place on 24 over par 304.

But while he was disappointed with his final showing on his Open debut – after playing in two US Opens – Archer said he hoped to take plenty of positives from the week.

After making 17 attempts to qualify, he was not going to let his final total take the shine off the week’s work.

"It was very tough out there again." he said, "with the wind blowing in a different direction. I got off to a great start, but really got blown about, particularly on the back nine, and was disappointed with the way I finished.

"I’ll take away with the positives because I have really enjoyed being part of the Open. The atmosphere has been great and even though I have had a couple of early tee times, the support from the people at Birchwood has been there.

"In the end I got worn down by the wind. I have had a couple of early starts this week, so I am pretty tired, but it has been a great experience."