FINAL RESULT: 0-1; -2.04pts

James/Smyth LOST by 4

This match was lost on the first day when James' rustiness came to the fore. He did close with a 64 to overtake Smyth early in the day, but the Irishman would shoot 66 to deny a lucky win.

Matchup play (2pts)

Mark James to beat Des Smyth -102 @ Expekt
James has taken his customary two-month break from this Tour at this time of the year and while he was considered for the outrights, he is not passed over in the matchups. In his last outing, he was a very strong 2nd in the Outback Steakhouse Pro-Am and comes into this event fresher than Smyth who has played in six events this year, but recorded only one top-10 finish. He is the defending champion this week, but that was also the case in the AT&T Classic last month when he finished 17th and a similar finish should not beat James.