Putting pain for Marcus

MARCUS ARMITAGE, the former Oldham junior, was left to reflect on a poor putting display as he narrowly failed to win through to the second stage of European Tour School.

The 21-year-old, who was making his first bid to secure a card to play on the European Tour, missed out by five shots at The Oxfordshire - where Chadderton Fold’s Martyn Hamer made it through to the second stage in Spain.

Armitage, who plays at Yorkshire club Howley Hall, shot 70, 75, 71 and 72 for a level-par 288 and a share of 54th place.

Those tied for 30th - a total of 36 players - progressed to the next phase.

Armitage, who turned professional a couple of months ago, said: “I was spot-on from tee to green, but struggled with the putter. I had five three putts over the four days and that is why I missed out.

“I hit 14, 12, 15 and 16 greens in regulation over the four days, but I just couldn’t sink the putts.”

Armitage, whose father Phillip is a market trader at Tommyfield, is determined to be back next year providing he can get the funding.

He says his expenses for last week alone were £1,700 and he desperately needs sponsorship.

Armitage explained: “The reason I turned professional was simply because I could not afford to remain an amateur, and I can now win prize money.

“When I go to events some of the other players are like Formula One drivers with lots of sponsors and yet I don’t have any, which makes it a struggle financially.”

Ideally, Armitage would like to compete on the EuroPro Tour next year to gain experience of playing tournament golf.

Armitage can be contacted on 07891 560638.