Major boost for Leona in Scotland
Leona Maguire. Picture by Pat Cashman

Leona Maguire. Picture by Pat Cashman

Leona Maguire heads to Royal Troon for this week’s AIG Women’s Open with a spring her step after finishing tied for 18th in her first start since February in the Aberdeen Standard Investments Ladies Scottish Open.

The touring professional for Slieve Russell National (25) followed rounds of 72, 72 and 71 with a one-under 70 to finish on one-over-par at the Renaissance Club. Scores

“I played solid all week and I’m pleased with how I scored better every day, which gives me good momentum heading into next week,” the Cavan golfer said. “It was a tough course to start back on but really happy with how patient I stayed and hit some really good quality shots especially today.”

American Stacey Lewis claimed the title with a birdie on the first extra hole of a sudden-death playoff after she closed with a 72 to finish tied with compatriot Cheyenne Knight, Denmark’s Emily Kristine Pedersen and Spain’s Azahara Muñoz on five-under.

Returning to the 18th for sudden-death, Lewis (35) holed an 18 footer for birdie to secure her 13th LPGA Tour win and $225,000.