• World Cup of Golf, Round Four

US pip England to World Cup crown

ESPN staff
November 27, 2011
The US claimed the trophy for the first time since 2000 © Getty Images
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Late heroics from English duo Justin Rose and Ian Poulter were in vain as the United States took the World Cup of Golf in China for the 24th time.

The English duo posted a 63 - an eagle, eight birdies and just the one bogey - that took them to 22 under, two strokes behind the winning total achieved by Matt Kuchar and Gary Woodland. Although the US team have been perennial winners at the event, this was their first triumph since 2000.

Germany, represented by Alex Cejka and Martin Kaymer, finished tied for second with England.

Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell, the Irish pairing, led the field by two after the third day's play - but despite having closed out major titles in their singles careers, they succumbed to pressure across the final 18 holes.

A final-round 72 was a disappointing effort in the circumstances, and Ireland finished tied for fourth on 21 under alongside Scotland, Holland and Australia. McIlroy in particular was well short of his usual level, fluffing a putt on the 18th that would have earned Ireland a share of second.

Defending champions Italy had a 74 to finish 17th, ten shots off the pace.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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