Young Australian Anthony Quayle has produced a sensational finish only to be pipped by India's Gaganjeet Bhullar for the rich Fiji International golf title.
Quayle played the back nine holes in seven under par as he shot a course record nine-under 63 to be clubhouse leader late in the $1.25 million, tri-sanctioned tournament on the windy Natadola Bay layout.
However, third-round leader Bhullar chipped in to match Quayle's eagle on the par-5 17th hole and it proved the difference as his 66 gave him a one-shot victory.
Quayle played his final round alongside South African great Ernie Els and out-scored the four-times major champion who carded a 65 to tie for third with New Zealand's Ben Campbell (66).
In his second year as a pro, 23-year-old Northern Territory-product Quayle had three birdies and a bogey on his front nine before catching fire from the 11th hole going birdie, eagle, birdie, birdie, par, par, eagle, par.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Bullar was full of praise for Quayle.
"Anthony played really well. Nine-under in these conditions, it's a great, great round of golf," he said.
Quayle admitted being a bit awe-struck playing with Els.
"I struggled to kind of comprehend I was playing with Ernie," he said.
"It was a great round and it was cool to do it in front of him. He had a few nice words for me in the scorer's tent.
"He said that was some back nine, really impressive. If you keep at it, you'll do well."
