THE PGA Jersey Players Championship at Les Mielles not only went down to the wire yesterday – it went beyond it.

The most exciting PGA Southern Region event held at the venue so far could not be decided over 54 holes, and a sudden death play-off was required before Glenn Ralph was crowned champion.

The lead changed hands numerous times over the early holes with David Osborn equalling the course record of 62 to set the early target, despite having started his final round nine shots adrift.

Overnight leaders Paul Simpson and Ben Willman played indifferent golf over the opening holes allowing the pack to close in, while Ralph produced shot-making of the highest quality to card a 65, setting a revised target of a 13-under 197.

Simpson and Willman finally got their game together and enjoyed a head-to-head to be admired.

When Simpson birdied 16 and 17 he led the field by one.

A a par-3 at the final hole would have secured the title, but a slack tee shot to about 40 feet and, following a good approach putt, his putt for the championship failed to find the bottom of the cup.

Willman, Simpson and Ralph then re-visited the 17th hole at which Simpson found the water hazard.

Willman played it safe, but with true character Ralph took on the challenge of carrying the water finishing some 50 feet from the flag.

Simpson failed to make par and when Willman missed from 15 feet for his birdie Ralph having knocked his approach putt to within three feet, knocked it in to secure a well-earned success.

Ralph paid tribute to the magnificent effort that Les Mielles had made and excellent condition of the golf course.

He also thanked Jersey Tourism, Education Sport & Culture and the many sponsors and competing teams for their support of the tournament wishing it every success in securing a major sponsor which would ensure that the event continues.

1st, 197: Glenn Ralph, Camberley Heath (65, 67, 65 for -13); Equal 2nd, 197: Ben Willman, Farnham (66, 64, 67 for -13); Paul Simpson, West Berkshire (65, 65, 67 for -13); 4, 199: Grant Willman, Worplesdon (67, 64, 68 for -11).