McIlroy Beats Tiger at Mission Hills

Rory McIlroy secured his first ‘win’ of 2013 when he defeated Tiger Woods by a single shot in the match at Mission Hills.

The Northern Irishman beat the current world number one in the big-purse exhibition match thanks to a very good final flourish in China.

McIlroy made four birdies and an eagle in the closing seven holes, finishing with seven-under 66; one stroke too strong for Tiger Woods.

It was an identical result almost to the clash last year when McIlroy’s round of 67 was enough to best Woods by a shot.

The two played some amazing golf on the back-nine at the Blackstone Course with matching eagles and three birdies apiece after the turn.

McIlroy caught Woods with a stupendous birdie on the 14th, moving him ahead at the 17th when Woods came up short of the green and missed a five-foot putt for par.

Tiger rallied and had one final chance to tie the match on the final green but was unable to convert a 20-foot eagle, thus leaving McIlroy victorious. He then swept up almost £1m for his attendance.