Golf: Watney clinches The Barclays

While Woods posted a five-over 76 and finished in a tie for 38th.

FARMINGDALE: American Nick Watney triumphed in The Barclays tournament, closing with a two-under 69 to capture the opening event in the FedEx Cup playoffs. Watney, who began the final round two shots back, finished at 10-under 274 to claim the title by three strokes at the Bethpage course, as overnight leader Sergio Garcia faded with a four-over par 75 into a tie for third. “Any time you win it’s great for your confidence,” said Watney. On the other hand, Tiger Woods had a day he would like to forget. Woods, who lost his PGA Tour playoffs points race lead, posted a five-over 76 and finished in a tie for 38th, stumbling down the stretch to shoot 40 on the back nine.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 28^th, 2012.