NORTH BERWICK, Scotland – Matt Fitzpatrick demonstrated more matchplay prowess ahead of a possible first appearance in the Ryder Cup in easing into the last 16 at the Paul Lawrie Match Play on Friday.
Fitzpatrick followed up a 4-and-3 win over Thomas Bjorn in the first round on Thursday by beating fellow Englishman Matt Ford 6 and 5 in the round of 32.
The 21-year-old Fitzpatrick occupies the ninth and final automatic spot in Darren Clarke's European team going into the last month of qualifying.
Chris Wood, the BMW PGA Championship winner, could have sealed a place in Europe's team by claiming the title in eastern Scotland, but lost 2 and 1 to Daniel Brooks in the round of 32.
Tournament host Paul Lawrie was eliminated by Richard Green on the 19th hole.
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