Viktor Hovland claims playoff win at Dubai Desert Classic

Viktor Hovland held his nerve in a playoff against Richard Bland to secure victory at the Dubai Desert Classic.

After missing a short putt at the 15th hole, the Norwegian's challenge looked over, but two outstanding putts at 16 and 17 took him to 12-over.

Englishman Bland backed up a consistent three days with another 68 to end level with Hovland, although the pair only finished joint-top on their own after an error of judgement from Rory McIlroy.

Targeting a tournament-clinching birdie, McIlroy sent his second shot at the final-hole par five into the water, and he ultimately missed a 15-foot par putt to end the tournament in third.

Both men played a good first playoff hole, but Hovland was left to claim the win when Bland sent a seven-foot birdie putt off target.

Fellow Englishmen Tyrrell Hatton and Sam Horsfield were among a five-strong group who tied for fourth, with previous leader Justin Harding only carding a 76 for his final 18 holes.

European Ryder Cup captain Padraig Harrington and Australia's Adam Scott also ended the tournament in the top 10.