9 Jun 2014

Crane wins in Memphis

11:53 am on 9 June 2014

American golfer Ben Crane became the first player in nine years to win a PGA Tour event without a birdie in the final round as he limped to a one-stroke victory at the St. Jude Classic in Memphis.

Crane did just enough to secure his fifth tour title, carding a three-over-par 73 at the TPC Southwind.

The 38-year-old had the luxury of bogeying the final hole, tapping in from one foot to finish at 10-under 270, while fellow American Troy Merritt, who shot 71, claimed second place on nine-under.

Crane's victory doesn't earn him a spot in the US Open which starts on Friday.

Phil Mickelson, meanwhile, tied for 11th, four strokes behind, matching his best result on the PGA Tour this year, though he tied for second on the European Tour in Abu Dhabi in January.

Mickelson needs to win the US Open at Pinehurst, North Carolina, to complete the career Grand Slam of all four majors.