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Scotland’s young golfers served notice of their ambitions for 2014 by defeating South Africa 14-10 on their own patch in the Leopard Trophy.

The tourists – fielding no fewer than six debutants – took a 10-6 lead into the final round of singles matches, outstanding performances in the four foursomes matches on both previous days giving laying the foundations for their advantage.

They maintained their good form where it mattered most on the final day, too, winning three and halving two of the eight singles matches to claim a hard-fought but deserved victory.

Afterwards, national coach Ian Rae paid tribute to his players, particularly those making their first appearances in the dark blue.

“The new caps all performed well and this bodes well for the future of Scottish golf,” said Rae.

“We are obviously delighted with the victory but I don’t think one should lose sight of the experience that both teams gained here this week.

The Leopard Trophy forms part of the Scottish squad’s annual eight-week winter training programme.

For us, to come out to a magnificent course like this each year and to expose our players to this type of course, the grass and weather is invaluable.

“But for the South Africans the chance to play against international competition is equally important. Irrespective of the result, and who lifted the magnificent Leopard Trophy, both teams are winners.”

The Leopard Trophy forms part of the Scottish squad’s annual eight-week winter training programme, which is supported by Leopard Creek proprietor, Johann Rupert, and Aberdeen Asset Management.

The majority of the side now head for the Western Cape to chase a Scottish hat-trick in the Sanlam South African Amateur Championship, which takes place at Hermanus Golf Club from February 25-28.

Leopard Trophy: Need To Know

The Leopard Trophy between Scotland and South Africa was first contested in 2010. The hosts won it that first year and again in 2011. Scotland claimed their first win in 2012, before the Springboks regained the title in 2013.

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Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

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