Paul Peterson edges past Thomas Pieters to win Czech Masters title

Paul Peterson has held off the challenge of Thomas Pieters to claim a maiden European Tour victory at the Czech Masters on Sunday.

In a close contest with the defending champion, Peterson mixed seven birdies with two blemishes on his way to a five-under 67 at Albatross Golf Resort, picking up a shot at the last to finish one stroke clear of the Belgian.

The American, who had previously recorded only two top-10 finishes on the European Tour, began the final round two strokes behind Pieters after equalling the course record on Saturday with an eight-under 64, but managed to pip his opponent thanks to his 17-foot birdie putt on the final hole.

First-round leader Ryan Evans posted a bogey-free 68 to end the week tied third with David Howell, as Matt Fitzpatrick carded a third 69 of the week to finish five strokes adrift.

English trio Graeme Storm, Robert Rock and Gary Boyd joined Robert Karlsson in a tie for seventh, while Ryder Cup hopeful Lee Westwood birdied two of his final three holes to close a level-par 72.