Carlsson has a ball in Glasson

By Brian Keogh

Magnus Carlsson grabbed his first tour win in the Challenge of Ireland at Glasson and confessed: I've had a ball.

The Swede, 26, closed with a 70 to win by a shot from Frenchman Michael Lorenzo-Vera (69) and Argentine Julio Zapata (67) on 10 under par.

And he revealed that he'll never forget his maiden victory after an unbelievable week at Glasson Golf Hotel and Country Club near Athlone.

Up to sixth in the rankings after pocketing €24,000, Carlsson said: "It feels very good to win. I don't think it has sunk in yet. Maybe when I get to the airport it will hit me.

"It was a great event with a lovely golf course, a great hotel with lovely rooms and great food. Everything was superb. I haven't had a Guinness yet but I might have one now."

Connemara's David Mortimer hit a super 69 to lead the Irish challenge in a share of 13th on two under par.

Ulsterman Gareth Maybin was a shot further back after a 73 with Birr's Justin Kehoe tied 18th on level par after a 71.

Glasson's Colm Moriarty was tied 25th after a closing 73.