Back-to-back Moama Masters titles for Michael Long

The New Zealander was able to overcome Nigel Lane in a sudden death play-off to secure the title.

The pair went into battle after tying at 9-under across the two rounds.

Long was able to storm to the top of the leaderboard in the second round off the back of a 67, which was kickstarted by an eagle of the par-5 fifth.

The play-off took place on the first hole and Long was able to make the green in three shots as Lane missed out.

According to Long, his second title in as many years wasn’t a familiar pattern to his usual performances.

“In the past I’ve struggled to defend any titles,” Long said.

“With that in mind I’m quite thrilled to have won the Moama Masters again. I really enjoy playing at Rich River and it was fantastic to see the course in great condition.”

The event at Rich River marked an official return to golf for Long who like so many other senior golfers had been forced to wait due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“This was my first senior event in over a year,” the 52-year-old said.

“Living in Perth we’ve been very fortunate with less tightened restrictions compared to some other places in the country.

“I played in some Victorian pro-ams in the lead-up to the tournament at Rich River, but it was nothing like what we have been doing.”

Peter O’Malley rounded out the podium after carting 7-under for the tournament.

Glenn Joyner, who was the leader at the halfway point, and John Wade finished in a tie for fourth.

Meanwhile Andre Stoltz and Peter Senior also finished in the top 10.

Day one of the competition also doubled as a pro-am giving some local players the opportunity to play alongside the professionals.

One of those was Rosalie Drill who said she had the pleasure of joining in on a round with O’Malley.

“It was absolutely fantastic,” she said.

“Peter was kind enough to share tips and tricks with our group throughout the day. Having a close up view of his work was great.

“It was one of the more enjoyable days I’ve had out on the course.”