• Italian Open, Round Four

Rock rolls past rivals to clinch victory

Robert Rock clinched his first tour title © Getty Images

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Englishman Robert Rock ended a nine-year wait to win his first European Tour event with a one-shot victory at the Italian Open.

Rock, leading the event going into the final day, started slowly and was soon set an intimidating 20-under par target by Dane Thorbjorn Olesen - who stormed round in 62 to jump to the top of the field.

Seven birdies in nine holes around the turn enabled Rock to edge ahead of Olesen, and the 34-year-old was able to contain his nerves over the final five holes to record the five pars he needed to finish at 21-under after a 67.

"It sounds great, I've been waiting a long time to even have a chance to do this and I played well so I'm really happy," Rock said. "I was just waiting for the first putt to go in to believe that I was still putting well. I was a bit cautious on a few putts opening up and then when I got one in I felt great, I felt comfortable.

"It's fantastic, it's a great tournament, and I've loved it at this venue. I was expecting to play well this week but not really expecting this.

"I'm just so excited, it was a brilliant day."

Fellow Englishman Gary Boyd eventually joined Olesen in second after a round of 66. Olesen, who holed his approach for an eagle on the third, was delighted with his performance after showing some good signs at last week's Wales Open.

"It was amazing. An amazing start and amazing to be out there," the 21-year-old told Sky Sports. "I think it's the first time I've holed a full shot in a tournament, it was magical.

"Thomas Bjorn gave me some small tips and it helped a lot - so thanks Thomas! I've been struggling for a couple of months but I found something in my swing and it's paying off."

Scot Peter Whiteford finished fourth on 19-under after a final round 66, while Dutchman Joost Luiten completed the top five after a 68 to finish a shot further back.

At the beginning of the day there had been faint hopes of a homegrown winner at Royal Park I Roveri, but 2006 winner Francesco Molinari could only muster a final round 70 as Matteo Manassero concluded his tournament with a 68 to ensure both men finished just inside the top-ten at 16-under, five shots behind the victorious Rock.

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