Lee Westwood’s Team England claimed a thrilling 72-33 victory over Sergio Garcia’s Team World in the inaugural Reignwood Icons of Football golf tournament in Bangkok, Thailand.
Team World, which featured the likes of Carlos Tevez, Nemanja Vidic and Ruud Gullit among other former professional footballers, faced an uphill task heading into into the final session of the two-day Ryder Cup-style tournament as they trailed 44-22.
And in the end, it proved to be a deficit too difficult to close down as Westwood’s men, inspired byJ ohn Terry, Paul Scholes and Jimmy Bullard, won eight of the 12 matches to seal victory and claim the winners’ jackets as the Icons Series made its Asian debut.
‘I think a coach or a captain is only as good as the talent he’s got to work with, and this is a talented bunch,’ said the former World No.1.
‘They were obviously world-class footballers, but they’ve managed to transfer it onto the golf course this week. They’re all ultra-competitive, and we just had the edge.’
Team World counterpart Garcia added: ‘The English team played great golf, but my guys did too, and I’m super proud of them. We tried to make it close today, but they were just a little bit too good. They were clutch every single time they needed to be. But I’m still really proud of my team.’
One of the most eye-catching match-ups came when former Liverpool star Robbie Fowler faced Manchester United legend Vidic.
And it was the former who claimed bragging rights with 6-2 victory.
‘When we found out the pairings earlier on, I think there’s just something about Liverpool vs. Manchester United,’ said Fowler.
‘I know we’re not playing anymore, but it’s still always good to get one up on Manchester United as a Liverpool player and a Liverpool lad. I know it’s England vs. the Rest of the World, but there’s always that element of club rivalries—it’s just what we do.
‘The course has been magnificent, the clubhouse, the people… outstanding. Within the next year, this will be one of the best courses in Asia, guaranteed. It’s a phenomenal place, and I’m so delighted I got to play a part in it—I’m not sure you’ll find many better facilities in this part of the world.’
Vidić added: ‘Playing with some great players I haven’t seen in the past has been amazing, as well as getting the opportunity to play here in Bangkok on this great course. It’s paradise. I’ve never played on a better golf course. And to have these spectators and media following what we’re doing—I’ve enjoyed every moment of the last two days.’