Observer Men's Golf Shield

IF GARY Byrne wants to put his name on the Observer Golf Shield for the third time this year he will certainly have to do it the hard way.

The twice winner of the competition had to hold his nerve on the 20th hole to prevent an early exit from this year's competition.

Ron Ormerod, from Accrington who plays off a 13 handicap, had eight shots over the Great Harwood golfer and had chances to win the second round match on the 16th, 17th and 19th holes.

"It was certainly a hard game and it is difficult giving an opponent so many shots," said Byrne, who plays off three. "I thought it was over as he was two-up with three to play but he missed shots and I managed to come back and birdied the 18th.

"Then I won it on the 20th but it was certainly hard work."

As if that wasn't enough, he now faces Ian Hardman at Accrington in the third round.

"Ian is a very good player. He has a better handicap than me, I think he plays off one. He is one of the best Accrington golfers and will be playing on his own course so it will be a struggle to beat him but I am a fighter and will keep going.

"I always seem to be drawn away though. I will have had three rounds at Accrington this time. When I won the trophy in 2004, I played five rounds at Rishton. I certainly have to do it the hard way!"

Defending champion Jason Ashworth got a walkover in his match.