MCSPORRAN MISSES CALL FOR CRIEFF PLAYOFF

Greig McSporran (Kinross Golf Courses) should have been involved in a seven-man play-off for six places at the conclusion of the regulation 18-hole First Qualifying competition at Crieff Golf Club for the Gleneagles Scottish PGA championship from July 23-26. But Greig, one of the early starters, went back to his golf-shop base after returning a three-over-par 74 and did not make it back in time when he heard that he was one of seven players with that score who were required to play-off for six places, i.e. to eliminate one. Tournament director Roy Murray said: "Greg did not answer the call when called to the tee for the play-off, which was unfortunate for him. He was still on his way back to Crieff course from Kinross. So his non-appearance did away with the need to have a play-off." Leading qualifiers were former Scotland amateur international Keir McNicol (Gullane) and Iain McNab (Dundonald Links), both on the one-under-par 70 mark. Qualifying competition No 2 - from which 14 players will go forward to the championship - will be held at Crieff tomorrow (Tuesday). The Monday qualifiers for Gleneagles were: Par 71 70 Keir McNicoll (Gullane), Iain McNab (Dundonald Links). 72 Scott Grieve (Turnhouse), Jamie Fraser (Renaissance), Gavin Cook (Prestonfield), Jonathan Lomas (unatt), Stewart Savage (Cawder). 73 Michael Patterson (Kilmacolm), Ken Campbell (Machrihanish), Greg Paxton (Ralston), Stuart Williamson (West Kilbide), Kenneth Walker (Castle Park), Alistair Mackenzie (Renaissance Club). 74 Terry Mathieson (Murcar Links), Jonathan Sharp (Carrick on Loch Lomond), Martin Lawrence (Newmachar), Iain Colquhoun (Dundonald Links), Andrew McMahon (Grove), Paul Robinson (Largs). NON-QUALIFIERS INCLUDED 74 Greig McSporran (Kinross Golf Course). (Failed to appear in time for play-off) 75 Lee Vannet (Carnoustie Links), Emma Fairnie (Gullane). 76 Heather MacRae (Gleneagles), Malcolm Isaacs (Nairn Dunbar).