Golf: NZ second in Nomura Cup

Ryan Fox of New Zealand finished in third place in the individual standings. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand have finished second at the Nomura Cup Asia-Oceania teams championship in Fiji, 21 shots behind runaway leaders Australia.

The New Zealand team carded an impressive seven-under par in the final round at the Denarau Golf Club to end the tournament three-under par.

New Zealand's hopes of denying Australia the title, their sixth success in their last seven attempts, were in ruins after a disastrous second round when they carded a combined eight over par total.

Australia are now the most successful team in Nomura Cup history winning the title nine times in the event's history, one more than Japan.

Gore golfer Vaughan McCall, on his international debut, led the way on the final day to shoot a three-under par 69.

"I hit the ball really well today," said the 20-year-old. "I only missed three fairways and four greens so I am pretty happy to finish this tournament with a good number."

New Zealand Amateur champion Mathew Perry and Sam An were the other two counting scores for the final round with rounds of two-under par 70.

Ryan Fox had a one-under par 71 to have the non-counting score and finish in third place in the individual standings.

"I am pretty happy with how I performed this week," said the 24-year-old.

"Obviously I am a bit disappointed with how I finished off in the final round but it was one of those days where I couldn't get anything going, I was trying to get close to Cam (winner Australian Cameron Smith) but the putts weren't dropping."

New Zealand team manager, John Gatley, said despite finishing well behind Australia, the relatively inexperienced team equipped themselves well.

"It was the first senior team performance for three of our guys and they stood up to that pressure well," said Gatley.

"Finishing 21 shots back from Aussie isn't too flattering but the way these guys came back in rounds three and four was great to watch. There is no doubt that they are only going to be better golfers from this experience."

- NZPA