Westwood moves into quarterfinals at Match Play

By Doug Ferguson

Associated Press

Published: Friday, Feb. 24 2012 3:45 p.m. MST

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Lee Westwood, of England, reacts on the fourth green against Nick Watney during the Match Play Championship golf tournament, Friday, Feb. 24, 2012, in Marana, Ariz.

Eric Risberg, Associated Press

Summary

Lee Westwood got his revenge on Nick Watney and moved a step closer to a shot at regaining the No. 1 ranking.

MARANA, Ariz. — Lee Westwood got his revenge on Nick Watney and moved a step closer to a shot at regaining the No. 1 ranking.

Westwood was eliminated in the Match Play Championship each of the last two years by Watney. He birdied the opening two holes and pulled away when Watney missed too many short putts. He advanced to the quarterfinals with a 3-and-2 win.

Rory McIlroy also can go to No. 1 by winning the Match Play. He was 2 up with five holes to play against Miguel Angel Jimenez.

Hunter Mahan won big over Steve Stricker, and Matt Kuchar defeated Martin Kaymer. Mahan and Kuchar next play in the quarterfinals, assuring an American will get to the semifinals for the first time since 2009.

In the battle of Scotland, Martin Laird outlasted Paul Lawrie.

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