Teenage sensation Rory McIlroy finished top points scorer as Europe beat Asia-Pacific 18-14 to regain the Sir Michael Bonallack Trophy in New Zealand.
The Irish Close champion, who also successfully defended his West of Ireland title over the Easter period, beat China's Mu Hu 3 and 2 in the singles to ensure he won four points out of a possible five.
McIlroy, who turns 17 next week, never appeared troubled in his match as he went five up after 13 before closing out the match at the 16th. Europe had gone into the final day singles ties needing to overturn a 10.5-9.5 deficit. In the end end they won eight of the 12 matches and halved one to win by four points. It also meant Europe denied their opponents a third straight win in the bi-ennial event.
"It's a great thrill. The team really rallied today," said English veteran amateur Gary Wolstenholme. "We were disappointed to let the Asia Pacific team back into things yesterday but today the team were just fantastic."
McIlroy decided to dedicate his time to the amateur circuit this year, instead of accepting invites to several professional events like last year, will play in next week's Lytham Trophy then compete in the AIB Irish Amateur Open at Portmarnock (May 12th-14th).
